For my friend Julie’s family, that meant playing the license plate game with Olympic-level competitiveness, asking each other thoughtful questions from conversation cards, and inventing little traditions that kept everyone laughing along the way.

One of their favorites? Whenever someone yelled “Bison!”, everyone had to stop what they were doing and gather for a family photo.

And when they reached the halfway point of a long drive, they would blast Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer.” As soon as the chorus hit — “Whoa, we’re halfway there…” — everyone sang along at full volume (plus, there was no need for anyone to ask, “Are we there yet?!”).

Those rituals became part of an unforgettable two-week adventure through Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Park, where Julie, her husband, and their three daughters spent their days hiking, spotting wildlife, swimming in alpine lakes, and soaking in Montana hot springs.

And somewhere between the geysers of Yellowstone, the alpine lakes of the Tetons, and the glaciers of northern Montana, Julie realized something: the most meaningful moments of the trip weren’t the famous viewpoints.

They were the hours spent together in the car.

🎧 Click on the above audio link to listen to our podcast interview on Substack, or find and listen to “The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

The Road Trip at a Glance

Duration: Two weeksRoute: Seattle → Yellowstone → Grand Teton → Glacier → Eastern WashingtonTravel Style: Road trip with three kids (including two teens)Highlights: Wildlife sightings, alpine lake swims, glamping, hot springs, and a daily Bon Jovi sing-along

Want more guides like this one? Subscribe to The Gomes Guide for weekly travel inspiration, delivered straight to your inbox every Tuesday.

🗺️ How Julie Planned the Trip (A Very Gen-X Approach)

Planning a national parks road trip takes some strategy — especially during peak summer travel.

Julie started the old-school way: with physical maps.

She ordered National Geographic maps of the parks and spread them across the table, highlighting routes and sketching out potential itineraries.

“Once I got the physical maps out, that’s when everything started coming together.”

From there, she gathered recommendations from friends, travel blogs, and locals and dumped everything into a Google Doc.

Once the plan started taking shape, she simplified the itinerary and moved it into a shared Notes app on her phone so the whole family could easily see what the plan was each day.

“The kids could just check the Notes app and see what we were doing that day. And I could add notes as we went.”

It became their living travel guide — part itinerary, part travel diary.

And with that plan in place, the family hit the road.

⛺Unique Places They Stayed

Julie intentionally chose three different types of lodging, giving each stop on the trip its own personality.

Glamping outside Yellowstone

Their first stop was glamping in West Yellowstone, where the family stayed in a large canvas tent with real beds and breakfast included.

“It felt adventurous, but we still had real beds — which was key for us.”

A cozy hotel near the Tetons

Next, they stayed in Victor, Idaho, just outside Jackson Hole while visiting Grand Teton National Park.

The hotel had a pool, laundry, and easy access to restaurants — something the kids especially appreciated after long days of hiking.

A HomeExchange in Whitefish

Their final stop was a HomeExchange house in Whitefish, Montana, near Glacier National Park.

The home had a backyard fire pit and space for everyone to spread out, making it the perfect place to land for the Fourth of July.

“After being on the road, it felt amazing to be in a home where everyone had their own room.”

🏞️ Yellowstone: America’s First National Park Still Delivers

Julie admits she arrived expecting Yellowstone to feel crowded and overly commercial.

Instead, she was blown away.

“I expected Yellowstone to feel like Disneyland. But it’s so vast that you can really find your own space.”

The park is so vast that you can easily explore different landscapes in a single day—from geysers and thermal pools to waterfalls and canyons.

Her biggest tip: divide the park into the North Loop and South Loop and explore one each day.

Highlights included:

* Old Faithful

* Grand Prismatic Spring

* Mammoth Hot Springs

* Artist Point and Lower Falls

* Elk sightings throughout the park

🦬 Grand Teton: The Most Meaningful Moment

For Julie’s family, the most emotional moment of the entire trip happened in Grand Teton National Park.

After hiking through wildflowers to Phelps Lake in the Rockefeller Preserve, the whole family jumped into the icy alpine water together.

“We all held hands and jumped into the lake at the same time. My youngest said, ‘I can’t believe we’re all here together.’ I’ll remember that forever.”

The Tetons also delivered incredible wildlife sightings, including herds of bison and baby bison grazing across the valley.

🐏 Glacier National Park: Wildlife Everywhere

Their final stop was Glacier National Park.

The family drove the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in North America, and hiked near Logan Pass.

Wildlife sightings included:

* Rocky Mountain goats

* Bighorn sheep

* Black bear

* A distant grizzly bear

There was even snow still on the trails.

“At one point we were hiking across snowfields while my youngest was wearing Crocs.”

💧A Stop Worth Planning: Chico Hot Springs

One of the most memorable stops came between parks.

While traveling from the Tetons toward Glacier, the family stopped at Chico Hot Springs, a historic Montana hot springs resort.

After dinner in the town’s western-style saloon, they soaked in warm mineral pools under the stars.

“You’re swimming in warm water, looking up at the stars. It was such a cool experience.”

🌟 Julie’s Top Tips for a National Parks Road Trip

1. Book reservations early

Park passes, lodging, and timed-entry reservations can fill up months in advance.

2. Visit the ranger station every morning

Rangers can recommend the best hikes and help you avoid crowds.

3. Pack a cooler for lunch

Having your own food gives you flexibility during long days in the parks.

4. Plan activities for car time

Games, questions, and music help turn long drives into part of the adventure.

5. Give teens ownership

Let them navigate, track mileage, or help choose activities.

“When teens have ownership, they feel like part of the adventure.”

♥️ The Little Moments That Matter Most

National parks are famous for their landscapes.

But what Julie remembers most isn’t just the scenery.

It’s the time together — the hikes, the conversations, the ridiculous sing-alongs, and the spontaneous moments that happened along the way.

“When you have teenagers, everyone’s busy and you don’t always see each other much. Those hours in the car turned out to be the most special part of the trip.”

Between wildlife sightings, alpine lakes, hot springs, and Bon Jovi sing-alongs, it was the kind of adventure families remember forever.

If stories like this make you want to start planning your own adventure, that’s exactly why I write The Gomes Guide.

Subscribe for weekly travel inspiration, destination ideas, and tips to help you make the most of your time away.

Meet Julietta Skoog

Julietta Skoog caught the travel bug at the age of 17 when she traveled solo to La Coruna, Spain to live with an exchange family who spoke only Spanish for a summer. Since then, she has studied and traveled abroad to over 25 countries. She lives in Seattle with the love of her life, Jon, and their three sporty and fun kids, two of whom are in local, public Japanese immersion schools in their awesome Wallingford neighborhood.

Professionally, Julietta is a Certified Positive Discipline Trainer with an Ed.S Degree in School Psychology and a Masters Degree in School Counseling with over 20 years of experience coaching families in Seattle Public Schools and homes all over the world. She is the Early Years Lead and co-founder of Sproutable, which offers grown ups the tools, systems and strategies they need to cultivate powerful relationships, teach social-emotional skills, and set healthy limits and boundaries with all kids, from babies to teens. She draws from her real life practical experience working with thousands of students with a variety of needs and her own three children when coaching parents, bringing a unique ability to translate research, child development and Positive Discipline principles into everyday solutions. She is passionate about using travel as an opportunity to teach kids critical life skills that help them reach their full potential to cultivate a more compassionate world.

Follow Sproutable on Instagram here.

Wishing you safe and memorable travels always,

Did you enjoy this post? Please leave a comment below, or give this post a quick ♥️, and please share The Gomes Guide will your travel-loving friends. Your support means the world to me and helps grow this community!

And don’t forget to bookmark The Gomes Guide homepage and search the archive for all past posts and podcast interviews.

Do you Travel with Teens? Don’t miss these posts👇

While I love traveling, I’m just as excited to explore my own city—and I’m always encouraging others to discover hidden gems and unique stories in theirs, too.

A few weekends ago, I visited the Gregangelo Museum in San Francisco’s Balboa Terrace neighborhood—one of the most unique immersive art experiences in the city.

It’s a living, ever-changing space filled with color, texture, and stories—and I left feeling completely inspired.

Moved, actually.

During the tour, the stories and art hit me in a way I didn’t expect—I even found myself wiping away tears.

And that feeling stayed with me long after I left.

I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

I knew I had to go back—not just to learn more, but to share it. Because the Gregangelo Museum is a powerful reminder of how meaningful local experiences can be.

This magical spot in San Francisco—now both an SF Historic Landmark and a Legacy Business—deserves attention for how it brings people together and creates real connections.

So I went back.

This time, I sat down with Gregangelo Herrera, the owner and founder, who calls himself a “chronic collaborator.”

He’s an artist and storyteller who has spent his life creating spaces where people don’t just observe—they connect.

And his story is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful experiences aren’t the ones that take you far away…

They’re the ones waiting right in your own backyard.

🎧 Click on the above audio link to listen to our podcast interview on Substack, or find and listen to “The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Subscribe to The Gomes Guide for weekly travel inspiration, delivered straight to your inbox every Tuesday.

🌁 Growing Up in a “Crazy” San Francisco

Gregangelo was born in San Francisco in 1966 and grew up in a version of the city that felt wildly different from today.

He describes it as “crazy”—but in the best possible way.

He was part of that very Gen X experience: taking cable cars to school, roaming neighborhoods freely, learning how to navigate the city at a young age.

“We learned how to navigate the city really well… we got street smart by the time we were five or six.”

This was post–Summer of Love San Francisco. A time of cultural upheaval, artistic expression, and social change unfolding all at once—civil rights, the feminist movement, the queer revolution.

“It was beautiful and spectacular.”

That spirit—raw, creative, a little chaotic, deeply human—is something he’s been channeling ever since.

🧞A House That Evolved Into Something Bigger

Gregangelo didn’t set out to create a museum.

He started working on the house in 1979, when it was a dilapidated rental filled with history—and a few surprises. Before he moved in, the home had been occupied by dancers from the San Francisco Ballet, part of a bohemian, artist-filled chapter of the city that feels almost mythical now.

Back then, the house was barely holding together—floors collapsing, ceilings crumbling.

But surrounded by artists and makers, Gregangelo slowly rebuilt it—piece by piece, with no grand plan in mind.

Over time, it became a creative hub. A gathering place. A living, breathing experiment.

Then came COVID.

When the world shut down, artists showed up—dozens of them. Young creatives, families, performers looking for purpose and connection.

“You can’t stop creativity.”

Together, they built something entirely new. At one point, they were producing 22 immersive shows a day!

What could have been the end… became a reinvention.

Today, the Gregangelo Museum is not only a one-of-a-kind immersive art experience—it’s also one of only two San Francisco landmark houses open to the public, alongside the Haas-Lilienthal House.

And it’s not a one-size-fits-all visit.

The museum now offers 22 immersive experiences each week, running Wednesday through Sunday—ranging from family-friendly adventures to deeper, more introspective journeys.

Each one is guided by artists. And no two feel exactly the same.

🪄This Isn’t a Museum. It’s a Mirror.

One of the things Gregangelo said that really stuck with me:

“We’re not performing anymore. We’re just being ourselves.”

And what unfolds is less about what you’re seeing… and more about what you’re feeling.

“It’s about you… what we can show each other to just be together, learn about each other, be genuine and real.”

No script. No right way to experience it.

Just presence.

🦋 Reconnecting with Our Childlike Sense of Wonder

One idea kept coming up: how much of ourselves we lose along the way.

That childlike curiosity—a sense of play, and the instinct to create without overthinking—used to come so naturally.

Somewhere between growing up and “figuring things out,” much of that curiosity and creativity gets pushed aside.

“We’re all born artists and creatives, but that gets knocked out of you.”

Gregangelo shared that much of what he’s created centers on helping people reconnect with a sense of wonder they once knew.

Not in a nostalgic, childish way. Instead, it’s grounded and human.

It’s a place where you’re not performing, not trying to get it right, not worrying about how it looks.

Just… being.

“Creativity doesn’t come from thinking. Just do it.”

This sounds simple in theory, but it’s not easy in practice.

As adults, we’re wired to overthink, to judge, and to hold back.

And what happens inside the Gregangelo Museum gently pushes against that.

Inside the Gregangelo Museum, you’re invited to play, to be curious, and to let go of needing to have it all figured out.

Perhaps that’s why the experience lingers: it reminds us that creativity is about returning to our lost sense of play and curiosity.

✨ Don’t Miss: Thursday Art Talks

One of the experiences I can’t stop thinking about is their weekly Art Talks, held every Thursday at 1pm.

It’s part salon, part shared meal, part creative spark.

A rotating “luminary” speaker—artists, writers, designers, even unexpected voices—leads a conversation, followed by a communal lunch and open dialogue.

“I don’t care what your topic is, but I want there to be a call to action… to get people to do something.”

It’s refreshingly unpolished in the best way.

No stage. No pretense.

Just people sitting together, talking, listening, connecting.

💫The Moment That Landed

At one point in our conversation, I brought up a quote from the show Ted Lasso that I’ve always loved:

“Be curious, not judgmental.”

It felt like the perfect distillation of what happens inside this house.

Because what Gregangelo has created is, at its core, an invitation:

- To be curious.

- To listen more deeply.

- To drop the assumptions we carry into every room.

As he put it:

“We all have everything in common… but we’re letting division define us.”

🌉 From Landmark to Living History

What’s especially exciting right now is how Gregangelo is expanding this work beyond his own walls.

Through a new collaboration with the Haas-Lilienthal House—one of the city’s most iconic historic homes and a fellow SF Landmark Home—he’s bringing his immersive storytelling approach into a completely different setting.

On Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, 2026, he’s debuting:

“Earthquake: Shaken, But Standing Strong!”

Timed to the 120th anniversary of the 1906 earthquake, this is more than a historical retelling—it’s an opportunity to genuinely experience the emotional reality of a pivotal moment in the city’s past.

It’s an immersive, multi-sensory experience designed to take you inside those first moments—through the lens of the family who lived in the home.

Using music, storytelling, and elements of neuroscience, Gregangelo recreates what that 45-second earthquake felt like—not just physically, but emotionally.

It’s meant to be disorienting at times. Even unsettling.

Because the goal is for you to walk away with a personal sense of history’s impact—not just learning about it, but truly connecting with it.

From there, the experience guides you through the aftermath—the chaos, the humanity, the resilience—so you leave with a deeper sense of how history shapes our present and the enduring power of community.

What struck me most was how he connected that moment in time to today.

In 1906, a natural disaster brought people together.

Today, he sees us living through something different—what he describes as more of a “manmade disaster”—where division often replaces connection.

This experience quietly asks:

What would it look like if we responded to today’s challenges with the same sense of solidarity?

Part immersive theater, part historical reflection, part communal experience—it’s exactly the kind of boundary-pushing work you’d expect from Gregangelo.

And like everything he creates, it’s not meant to be explained.

It’s meant to be felt.

If this speaks to you, you can learn more and purchase tickets here.

Note: I’ll be there the evening of Friday, April 17th, so if you live in the SF Bay Area - come join me!

⚡️Rapid Fire with Gregangelo about SF

Before we wrapped, I asked Gregangelo a few quick questions about San Francisco—his answers felt like a love letter to the city.

Favorite San Francisco neighborhood?

“Telegraph Hill. I’m always climbing the stairways, going down the alleyways. It’s magical.”

Favorite hidden food spot?

“I’ve given myself a rule—I don’t spend more than five bucks to eat. But there are taquerias in North Beach, the Mission, the Castro where you can still get a great meal.”

Where do you go for inspiration?

“The beach. I go to the ocean. I’ll sit there, listen to the foghorn, the waves… that’s where ideas come.”

A classic San Francisco experience everyone should have?

“Riding the cable cars. I grew up on them—I still love them.”

One word to describe San Francisco?

“Accepting.”

If you could wave a magic wand over San Francisco right now, what would you want it to rediscover?

“Its weirdness.”

🔮 Final Thoughts

After hearing him talk about San Francisco that way—and about reconnecting with that sense of curiosity and play—it made even more sense why my first visit stayed with me.

And going back—this time to understand the story behind it—only deepened that feeling.

Because what you experience inside the Gregangelo Museum isn’t just art.

It’s a reminder.

Of what it feels like to be present. To be open. To be curious again.

To tap back into that part of yourself that isn’t overthinking everything… that isn’t worried about getting it right.

In a world that can feel increasingly disconnected—and, at times, a little heavy—what Gregangelo has built is something rare:

A space where people come together, not just to observe… but to actually see each other.

And maybe, in the process, remember a little more of who they are.

And honestly, that feels like something worth seeking out right now.

To view all of the Gregangelo experiences and purchase tickets, visit: https://www.gregangelomuseum.com/, and be sure to tell Gregangelo that Shannon from The Gomes Guide sent you. ✨

Meet Gregangelo Herrera

Gregangelo Herrera is a visual and performing artist, a Whirling Dervish, and the visionary founder behind three of San Francisco’s most imaginative ventures. As the Artistic Director of the Gregangelo Museum, he has transformed his private residence into a portal of self-realization that was recently honored as a San Francisco Historic Landmark and a Legacy Business.

Through his companies, Velocity Arts & Entertainment and the legendary Velocity Circus, Gregangelo leads a multicultural ensemble that blends circus artistry and immersive storytelling to spark joy and human connection. Whether at his landmark museum or on stages, Gregangelo’s mission is simple: to unlock the full potential of the human imagination.

The Instagram Reel I created from my tour of the Gregangelo Museum:

Here’s to always keeping our childlike sense of wonder, connecting with others, supporting artists, and always being curious not judgmental,

Did you enjoy this interview? Have you been to the Gregangelo Museum—or experienced something like this? Please leave a comment below, or give this post a quick ♥️, and please share The Gomes Guide with your friends. Your support means the world to me and helps grow this community!

And don’t forget to bookmark The Gomes Guide homepage and search the archive for all past posts and podcast interviews.

Recent posts 👇

What they don’t know is that the statue was born out of one of the most chaotic moments in Wall Street history — or that traders have rubbed its horns for good luck on their way to work for years.

That’s the kind of story that changes how you see a city.

And it’s exactly the kind of story Dana Tamuccio tells every day on her walking tours of Lower Manhattan. Dana is the founder of Vibe Tours, and I recently had her on the podcast to talk about the magic of New York City.

New York holds a special place in my heart. I moved there right after college and spent two unforgettable years learning to walk faster, make quick decisions, and fall in love with the city’s energy. If you’ve lived there, you know exactly what I mean. Those two years shaped me in ways I still feel and live today.

Talking with Dana reminded me of something I’d almost forgotten: the best way to understand New York isn’t through a guidebook.

It’s through the stories.

🎧 Click on the above audio link to listen to our podcast interview on Substack, or find and listen to “The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Here are a few highlights from our conversation:

Dana’s Career Pivot Feels Like a Very New York Story

Her father, uncle, and brothers all worked on the New York Stock Exchange floor, so the financial world was always part of her life. Eventually she became a proprietary trader herself.

Then one unexpected opportunity changed everything.

She saw an ad for a Yankee Stadium tour guide and thought it sounded fun — and impossible. She got the job. And the moment she was in front of a crowd, something clicked. She started guiding tours around Wall Street, blending insider knowledge with storytelling, and eventually launched Vibe Tours, built around authentic local experiences and small groups.

The Story Behind the Charging Bull

Most visitors stop for a photo and move on. Dana’s tour guests get the full story.

The statue appeared in the aftermath of the 1987 stock market crash, when trading floors were overwhelmed. Dana’s father worked on the exchange during that era — orders came so fast that containers were literally falling off conveyor belts. Traders communicated through whistles and hand signals because you couldn’t hear a thing.

Today trades happen in milliseconds. But hearing those stories makes the history of Wall Street feel startlingly alive.

What most visitors don’t know is that the bull is just one stop on a whole map of superstitious spots Dana shares on her tour. Traders and brokers have long had their rituals — rubbing the bull’s head and horns on the way to work, touching a cornerstone on the Bank of New York that dates back to Hamilton’s original building, or flipping coins on Hamilton’s grave for good luck.

In fact, Dana still does it herself!

The Fearless Girl

The Fearless Girl statue is one of the most photographed spots in Lower Manhattan — but most people don’t know she’s already been moved once.

She was commissioned in 2017 to highlight the gender pay gap, and originally placed directly in front of the Charging Bull. She got moved, Dana says, because she was getting too much attention. Her take? Kicking her out did more to make the bull a controversial symbol than the statue ever did.

Today the Fearless Girl stands in front of the New York Stock Exchange — which Dana thinks is actually the better spot for her message anyway.

A Hamilton Tour That Brings History to Life

Dana also leads a Hamilton-inspired walking tour through Lower Manhattan — part Broadway, part real history. Guests move site to site through Fraunces Tavern, Trinity Church, Hamilton’s grave, and the historic streets of Lower Manhattan, with the music playing as they walk.

The idea came from a spontaneous moment early in her guiding career, when a school choir broke into “The Schuyler Sisters” right there in the street. People stopped. Gathered. Watched. Dana thought: this needs to be a tour.

The Women of Wall Street

This one, Dana says, is her passion project.

While researching Wall Street history, she uncovered dozens of remarkable women whose stories rarely get told. One of them was Henrietta Green, an early investor who turned $1 million into what would be billions today. History rewarded her with a nickname, “The Witch of Wall Street,” because she wore a black dress (ugh!).

The tour also explores the symbolism behind the Fearless Girl statue and the ongoing conversation about gender and corporate leadership it represents.

A Different Kind of Christmas Tour

If you’re visiting New York in December, Dana also runs a Lower Manhattan Christmas tour — and it’s deliberately not the Rockefeller Center experience.

Using a small minibus, she takes guests through the lesser-known holiday spots downtown: the Wall Street Christmas tree, the Seaport lights, Madison Square Park, and Washington Square Park. Fewer crowds, better photos, and the same insider storytelling that makes her other tours special.

Dana’s Insider NYC Tips

Planning a trip? A few of Dana’s local favorites:

* Best pizza slice: Joe’s Pizza, Fulton Street location

* Classic NYC steakhouse: Sparks Steakhouse — old-school atmosphere, excellent martinis, legendary wine list

* Hidden gem coffee: Conwell Coffee & Cocktail Hall, a cafe inside a historic bank building where baristas serve from behind the original teller windows

* Favorite Park: Madison Square Park

* Best neighborhood for one day: Lower Manhattan — incredible history, easy access to the Brooklyn Bridge, and great food in nearby Chinatown and Little Italy

* Charging Bull pro tip: Go around 7 a.m. if you want photos without the crowds

* Book a tour: Vibe Tours and Tour of Wall Street

Final Thoughts

Toward the end of our conversation, I asked Dana what she hopes visitors take away after spending a couple of hours walking the city with her.

Her answer stuck with me: she wants them to understand that New York is a city of constant reinvention. That when things fall apart — and they have, more than once — New York gets up, pivots, and changes. That resilience is woven into every block.

She put it simply: In New York, you can become a new man. A Hamilton lyric, yes — but also just the truth.

It isn’t just the skyline. It’s the layers — the traders who once shouted orders across the exchange floor, the revolutionary leaders who shaped a young nation just a few streets away, the generations of New Yorkers who built neighborhoods full of culture, food, and tradition.

You could walk those streets a hundred times and still miss half of it.

That’s what a great guide gives you. Not just directions, but a way of seeing.

The next time you find yourself in Lower Manhattan, you might pass the Charging Bull, Trinity Church, or Hamilton’s grave. But if you’re lucky, you’ll hear the stories behind them.

And once you do, New York never quite looks the same.

Because the real New York isn’t something you see. It’s something you discover.

Meet Dana

Dana Tamuccio is the founder of Vibe NYC Tours and a lifelong New Yorker with a background in finance and trading. A still-active equities trader—though no longer trading professionally—Dana spent years immersed in the world of markets and investing, developing a deep understanding of Wall Street and the history behind America’s financial capital.

Her path into the tour industry began in an unexpected place: Yankee Stadium. After leading tours there, she quickly fell in love with the craft of storytelling and guiding visitors through New York City’s rich history. Dana later freelanced for larger tour companies across the city, gaining experience while refining her style and approach.

Eventually, she launched Vibe NYC Tours to create something different: small-group walking tours focused on niche topics and meaningful storytelling. Today her tours explore themes like the history of Wall Street, the legacy of Alexander Hamilton, the meaningful 9/11 Memorial and the overlooked contributions of women in finance and American history. And, the newly launched Chrstmas Tours designed to showcase the hidden sites locals enjoy.

Blending her financial expertise with a passion for New York’s past, Dana brings an insider’s perspective to Lower Manhattan—one that connects the city’s historic streets to the forces that shaped modern markets and the nation itself.

Wishing you safe and memorable travels always,

Did you enjoy this post? Please leave a comment below, or give this post a quick ♥️, and please share The Gomes Guide will your travel-loving friends. Your support means the world to me and helps grow this community!

And don’t forget to bookmark The Gomes Guide homepage and search the archive for all past posts and podcast interviews.

In my latest podcast episode, I sat down with Anisha Patel, a pediatric pharmacist and mom of two based just outside of London, who took her family (husband and kids ages 3 and 8) to Thailand for 30 days. Not a rushed vacation. Not a bucket-list sprint. A full month of family travel in Thailand — across seven destinations, from Phuket to Koh Lanta to Khao Sok National Park.

What she discovered surprised even her.

If you’re dreaming about a family trip to Thailand - whether for one week or one month - this episode is full of honest insight on safety, budgeting, island hopping, and what really matters once you’re there.

🎧 Click on the above audio link to listen to our podcast interview on Substack, or find and listen to “The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Why Spend a Month in Thailand with Kids?

Thailand wasn’t random. It was intentional.

After years of working 40–50 hours a week and missing key moments with her children, Anisha began rethinking her life. Her podcast gave her more flexibility, and she wanted to test something bigger: Could her family actually live differently?

“Thailand was a trial to see what it’s like to be away with your family for an extended period of time… not just a one- or two-week vacation.”

They chose December for the warm, dry weather (highs in the 80s Fahrenheit), booked flights for about $700 round-trip using Google Flights alerts, and committed to 30 days abroad. Not as tourists. But as a family building a temporary life.

How to Plan a Month in Thailand as a Family

If you’re considering extended family travel in Thailand, her planning strategy is worth noting.

They:

* Downsized their home to free up travel funds

* Created a dedicated “Adventure Fund” savings account

* Used Booking.com’s mobile app for better hotel discounts

* Prioritized ferries and boats over domestic flights

* Built flexibility with free cancellation bookings

They visited seven locations in 30 days, including:

* Phuket

* Koh Lanta

* Phi Phi Islands

* Krabi

* Khao Sok National Park

Would she move that much again?

“For future trips, I would recommend four locations max. My husband would say three.”

That insight alone may save other families from overpacking their itineraries.

Is Thailand Safe for Families?

One of the biggest questions parents ask: Is Thailand safe with kids?

Her answer was immediate.

“Thailand is 100% one of the safest places I’ve been. And they love kids.”

From hotel staff bonding with her children to locals offering help in the heat, she never once felt unsafe — whether in busy tourist hubs or remote jungle locations.

Thailand is deeply family-oriented. Children are warmly welcomed, and she consistently feels supported.

For families researching whether Thailand is kid-friendly, her experience was overwhelmingly positive.

The Truth About Phuket, Maya Bay, and Overtourism

Thailand is often marketed as affordable and easy to visit.

And it can be.

But in places like Phuket and Maya Bay, she experienced the reality of overtourism.

“When I got there, I realized some of the things we’re seeing through social media are not actually worthwhile for my family unit.”

Maya Bay was stunning — and packed.

* Thousands of tourists.

* Five minutes for photos.

* Twenty minutes waiting just to get back on the boat.

Meanwhile, the days her children loved most?

* Swimming for hours.

* Building sandcastles.

* Doing nothing.

“The slower-paced days where we spent six or seven hours swimming in a pool… that’s what the kids loved.”

If you’re planning family travel in Thailand, this is your reminder: the quiet beaches may matter more than the viral ones.

Why Koh Lanta Is One of the Best Thai Islands for Families

If there was one standout destination for traveling in Thailand with kids, it was Koh Lanta.

Nine days. A rental car. Empty beaches.

“Not a single soul on the beach for three or four hours… My son would be building sandcastles in flow state for two hours.”

They built a simple routine:

* Morning beach time

* Afternoon nap

* Sunset swims

* Slow dinners

It wasn’t sightseeing. It was living.

For families looking for a place to stay in Thailand for longer visits, Koh Lanta may be one of the most peaceful, family-friendly options.

How Kids Adapt to Long-Term Travel

Her three-year-old thrived.

“Every second he was there, he was happy.”

Her eight-year-old surprised her.

She handled flights, logistics, and new environments beautifully — but deeply missed her friends and school.

That honesty matters.

Long-term travel with kids isn’t perfect. It’s layered.

Still, growth showed up in subtle ways.

“You won’t see the growth on the holiday. You’ll see it months later.”

Since returning home, her daughter has more confidence ordering food, speaking with adults, and navigating new situations.

Travel builds resilience quietly.

The Most Unforgettable Experience in Thailand

Khao Sok National Park, a jungle older than the Amazon rainforest. Floating huts on a lake. Canoe rides through limestone cliffs. No Wi-Fi. Just nature.

And then there was the unforgettable cooking class. They cooked Thai green curry inside bamboo shoots over an open fire.

“It was the best meal we had the entire month… and we cooked it ourselves.”

That’s the kind of experience that stays with a family forever.

Not the expensive attractions, but the shared moments together.

What a Month in Thailand Taught Her About Slowing Down

When I asked what the trip taught her, she didn’t hesitate.

“I need to slow down.”

That might be the real takeaway here.

“A month-long vacation like that was such an incredible reset. If I could do that twice a year, I would be one happy human being.”

This story isn’t really about Thailand.

It’s about permission.

Permission to:

* Travel slower

* Visit fewer places

* Prioritize connection over content.

* Build a routine while abroad.

* Redesign your pace of life.

You don’t need 30 days in Southeast Asia to apply this.

Maybe it’s:

* One week in one place

* Fewer day trips

* More time in the water (lake, river, ocean or swimming pool)

* More shared meals

* Less rushing

Sometimes the biggest shift isn’t geography.

It’s rhythm.

Meet Anisha Patel

Anisha Patel is a pharmacist turned entrepreneur, podcast host, and mum of two who is intentionally designing a life that blends adventure with meaningful work.

After building her career across community, hospital and emergency pharmacy — including international experience in the UAE and serving as a senior lecturer at King’s College London — Anisha made a bold shift. She stepped away from the traditional full-time path to create a flexible, remote career that allows her to prioritize both impact and family.

In 2020, she launched Pharmacist Diaries, a podcast now spanning 200 episodes, reaching listeners in over 125 countries and surpassing 100,000 downloads. What began as a creative outlet has evolved into a business — opening doors to global brand collaborations, educational video production, and consulting organisations on how to use podcasting as a strategic growth tool.

Today, Anisha works as a locum pediatric pharmacist while building her entrepreneurial portfolio around podcast strategy and long-form video content. Her work lights her up because it combines creativity, storytelling, and genuine connection — all delivered on her terms.

As a mum of two young children, she is passionate about showing that ambition and presence can coexist. Her family’s next adventure? KENYA — continuing their commitment to exploring the world while building a fully remote, flexible life that feels aligned and intentional.

For Anisha, travel isn’t an escape from work — it’s part of the design.

Did you enjoy this interview? If so, please give it a ♥️, leave a comment, or forward on to your travel-loving friends. This helps more people discover The Gomes Guide on Substack and The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast. Thank you!

In my latest podcast episode, I talked with Sucheta Rawal, a travel journalist, world-renowned keynote speaker on travel, and book author. She has visited over 130 countries and built her career on meaningful, responsible travel.

Sucheta didn’t begin her career in travel. She actually started out in finance.

Today, she writes for major global publications, speaks at international events, and leads small-group trips through her nonprofit, Go Eat Give. This organization focuses on cultural connection, sustainability, and supporting women-owned businesses around the world.

But what stood out to me wasn’t her resume. It was her unique perspective on travel.

🎧 Click on the above audio link to listen to our podcast interview on Substack, or find and listen to “The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

🌎 From Investment Banking to Travel Journalism: How She Built a Career in Travel

Sucheta’s path into travel writing wasn’t linear.

She began by writing about restaurants and documenting her own trips while working full-time in finance. Slowly, side projects turned into paid assignments. Eventually, she transitioned into full-time travel storytelling.

Her advice for anyone dreaming of a career pivot?

“Go for it — but be consistent. It is going to take time to establish yourself… just follow your heart and be persistent about it.”

Travel journalism is competitive. Publications shut down. Editorial jobs are scarce. But if it’s your calling, she believes persistence is non-negotiable.

For anyone building a creative career, that’s real talk. (And something I really needed to hear!)

🫶 What Traveling to 130+ Countries Reveals About Human Connection

When you’ve traveled that extensively, your worldview shifts.

But not in the way you might expect.

“It’s not about the number of countries… it’s about connecting to people and understanding that we are practically the same everywhere in the world.”

She spoke about breaking bread with strangers and realizing that, despite differences in religion, politics, or dress, people want the same things:

* A loving family.

* A sense of purpose.

* A roof over their heads.

* Happiness.

It’s easy to form opinions based on headlines.

It’s much harder — and much more meaningful — to sit across from someone and share a meal.

♥️ Why Experiencing a Place in Person Changes You

One of my favorite moments in our conversation was when she described something a museum curator once told her:

When you physically walk through a space, the knowledge is absorbed differently.

You can read about a castle, scroll through photos, or watch videos.

But when you stand there?

You feel it.

“It’s only when you’re there that you feel the presence of it.”

That’s the power of travel. It’s embodied.

Transformative Travel Experiences: Silence, Spirituality, and Indigenous Wisdom

Sucheta shared two unforgettable experiences that reshaped her perspective.

🌸 A Five-Day Silent Spiritual Hike in Japan

She joined a Yamabushi retreat led by a 14th-generation mountain hermit, hiking sacred mountains in silence, eating only small bowls of miso soup; brushing, bathing, using a phone, and talking were forbidden.

“It was such an awakening for me… I’m stronger than I think I am.”

As someone who describes herself as a city girl, it pushed her far outside her comfort zone.

And that’s often where growth happens.

🌿 Conversations with Indigenous Communities

She also spoke about learning from indigenous elders in places like Tahiti — communities that have long understood sustainability, stewardship, and coexistence with nature.

Ancient wisdom that predates modern sustainability conversations.

“All this knowledge has been around for thousands of years… we’ve just numbed ourselves to it.”

In a time of overtourism and climate strain, those lessons feel more relevant than ever.

🎋What Responsible Travel Looks Like Today

When I asked her to define meaningful travel, her answer was simple and powerful:

“It’s leaving something, not taking with you.”

That can mean:

* Supporting locally owned businesses

* Choosing women-owned tour operators

* Volunteering or bringing donations

* Buying artisan goods instead of mass-produced souvenirs

* Leaving no trace in nature

She also said something I loved:

Be “people sensitive,” not just price sensitive.

When you travel, you are a guest in someone else’s home. Act like it.

🫂 Inside Go Eat Give: Travel That Gives Back

Sucheta founded Go Eat Give in 2011 after readers began asking her how to travel more intentionally.

What started as a Facebook post — “I’m going to Morocco, who wants to come?” — turned into a nonprofit that organizes immersive trips around the world.

Their model:

* Partner with local charities

* Work with women-owned businesses

* Keep the majority of tourism dollars in the community

* Offer professionals meaningful experiences without sacrificing comfort

It’s not a gap year. It’s not bus-tour travel. It’s purpose-driven small group travel for people who want depth. Interested in learning more? Visit the Go Eat Give website.

🇮🇳 The Destination That Will Change You

When asked which destination everyone should experience at least once, she didn’t hesitate.

India.

“Once you go to India, you will look at your life differently.”

The diversity, the contrasts, the humility, the ancient culture — she believes it reshapes perspective in a profound way.

🧳 Three Words That Define Travel

At the end of our conversation, I asked her to describe what travel means in three words.

Her answer:

“Privilege. Growth opportunity. Connection to the world.”

That last one stayed with me: Connection to the world. Not just sightseeing. Not just checking boxes, but belonging to something bigger.

🌎 Final Thoughts: Travel Is a Privilege — Use It Well

This conversation reminded me that travel isn’t just about where we go.

It’s about how we show up.

* Are we curious?

* Are we respectful?

* Are we supporting the communities we visit?

* Are we open to being changed?

In a world that feels increasingly divided, travel remains one of the most powerful tools for empathy.

And if there’s one takeaway from this episode, it’s this:

* Travel widely.

* Travel thoughtfully.

* And remember, he goal isn’t to collect countries. It’s to connect.

Meet Sucheta Rawal

With a mission to promote meaningful and sustainable travel, award-winning South Asian travel writer, columnist, author and speaker, Sucheta Rawal has contributed to over two dozen publications including CNN, TIME Magazine, NatGeo, Travel+Leisure, CondeNast, Fodor’s, and HuffPost. Sucheta is a three time TEDx speaker and author of five ‘Beato Goes To’ children’s books that educate kids about the diversity of the world. She has personally traveled to over 120 countries across seven continents and speaks about her experiences from her firsthand perspective. She also founded the non-profit, Go Eat Give, to raise awareness of different cultures through travel, food and community service.

You can follow Sucheta on Facebook and Instagram, and follow Go Eat Give on Facebook and YouTube. You can also learn more about her books here and purchase here.

Did you enjoy this interview? If so, please give it a ♥️, leave a comment, or forward on to your travel-loving friends. This helps more people discover The Gomes Guide on Substack and The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast. Thank you!

I’m also encouraging listeners to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts so new episodes show up automatically on your feed and you never miss one. Click on the link below to follow and please share with your travel-loving friends.

Starting in Porto, Ending at the Table: A Podcast Conversation with Chef Joanne Weir 🍷

Chef, cookbook author, TV personality, restaurant owner, and international culinary tour operator, Joanne Weir is heading back to Portugal this April, leading a small-group on a culinary tour through Porto and the Douro Valley—and as of now, she still has a couple of spaces available (April 19-25, 2026).

When Joanne joined me in-person to record this podcast interview, we began by talking about that upcoming trip: wandering markets in Porto, cooking together as a group, tasting wine in the Douro Valley, and what makes this region such a powerful place to experience food and culture side by side.

But as often happens when you start talking about food, the conversation quickly opened up into something bigger.

We found ourselves talking about connection, confidence in the kitchen, and why gathering around the table still matters—maybe more than ever.

🇵🇹 Why Porto Is the Perfect Place to Begin

Joanne has cooked and traveled all over the world, but Porto and the Douro Valley in Portugal holds a particular kind of magic. Not just because of the scenery or the wine, but because food is woven into everyday life.

“In so many places, the market is the social event,” Joanne told me. “People talk. They slow down. They connect.”

That idea—food as ritual rather than obligation—became a thread that ran through our entire conversation.

🦐 Food as the Ultimate Connector

At one point, I said something that felt like it captured the heart of what we were really talking about:

“The biggest love language of all is food.”

I also joked about what I call our “DoorDash culture”—the way convenience has slowly replaced connection, and how meals are often treated as something to get through rather than something to share.

Joanne immediately leaned into that idea, reflecting on how food-first cultures approach cooking and eating with intention rather than pressure. Her response wasn’t judgmental. It was grounding. A reminder that food has always been about more than eating—it’s about slowing down, paying attention, and being together.

👩‍🍳 Cooking Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated

One of the most refreshing parts of our conversation was Joanne’s insistence that cooking shouldn’t feel intimidating.

“Cooking isn’t rocket science,” she said. “If you master one recipe, you gain confidence.”

She sees this play out over and over again on her culinary tours. People arrive unsure of their skills, convinced they’re “not good cooks.” They leave realizing they’ve been overthinking it.

And for Joanne, the real magic happens after the trip ends.

“People send me photos when they get home,” she said. “They’re cooking for their friends and family. That makes me so happy.”

That’s the point. Not showing off technique, but helping people feel capable and generous in their own kitchens.

🍽️ Entertaining, Simplified

We also talked about how unnecessarily complicated we’ve made entertaining.

“You don’t need to cook all day,” Joanne said. “Light a candle. Open a bottle of wine. Put out some olives and cheese. Maybe make one or two dishes. That’s dinner.”

Her philosophy gives permission to host without pressure, to gather without perfection, and to remember that people care far more about how they feel at your table than what you serve.

🌎 Where Travel Fits In

Joanne’s Porto and Douro Valley tour this April reflects everything she believes about food and travel. It’s immersive without being intimidating, hands-on without being rigid, and designed for curious travelers, wine lovers, and anyone who wants to feel more confident in the kitchen.

“You’re never on your own,” she said. “You learn together.”

The destination matters, of course. But what matters more is what people bring home.

❤️ The Feeling She Hopes You Leave With

When I asked Joanne what she hopes people feel at the end of one of her tours, her answer came immediately.

“I want them to leave with a big smile on their face,” she said. “And that aha moment where they think, ‘I can do this.’”

That feeling—confidence, joy, connection—was the heart of our conversation.

We may have started in Porto and the Douro Valley, but we ended somewhere much closer to home: around a table, lingering a little longer, and remembering why food still matters.

🎧 Want more?

You can listen to the full episode of this interview with Joanne on either Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And if traveling through Portugal with Joanne this April sounds like your kind of adventure, details about her Porto and Douro Valley culinary tour (with limited remaining spots) are available now.

Meet Joanne Weir

Joanne Weir is a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author, celebrated chef, TV personality, restaurant owner, and international culinary tour operator based in San Francisco, CA.

Joanne has dedicated her career to sharing her love of cooking—whether through her acclaimed public television series, including Joanne Weir’s Cooking Class, Joanne Weir Gets Fresh, and Joanne Weir’s Plates and Places, where she takes viewers on culinary adventures around the world.

In addition to television, Joanne is also a restaurateur. In 2012, she opened Copita, a modern Mexican restaurant and tequileria in Sausalito, which has since expanded to a second location in San Jose, CA.

Joanne’s passion for global flavors extends to the Culinary Journeys she leads every spring and fall, offering hands-on cooking experiences in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Recognized as Tour Operator of the Year by the International Association of Culinary Professionals, these tours immerse travelers in local cuisine, culture, and cooking traditions.

Joanne’s work has been featured in Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, Sunset, and more, and she’s appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning America, and Fox.

With a deep passion for fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and teaching others to cook, Joanne continues to inspire home chefs and food lovers alike. You can follow Joanne on Instagram and Facebook, and learn more about her Culinary Tours here.

Did you enjoy this interview? Please hit the ❤️ button, leave a comment below, and/or share this post with your friends and encourage them to subscribe to The Gomes Guide and listen to The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Thank you!

The goal was never to check places off a list. It was about expanding our kids’ world and how they think, showing them that there are many ways to live, eat, move through a place, and connect with people. It’s been a deeply meaningful part of how we’ve raised them.

As they’ve gotten older, though, I’ve learned that traveling with teens is a very different experience.

Teenagers tend to care deeply about two things when they travel with family: where and when they’re eating and whether they get a little personal space.

So when I sat down with my own teens, Quinn (19) and Fiona (15), to talk about travel from a teen’s perspective on my Mixtape Travels podcast, the conversation went deeper than I expected.

What they really want is a voice in the itinerary and how the trip unfolds. A seat at the planning table.

Trips that balance adventure and downtime, food and movement, togetherness and independence.

Here’s what years of traveling together have taught my teens and what they want parents to know before planning the next trip.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

🗺️ Teens Want a Seat at the Table

One of the clearest themes of our conversation was how important it is for teens to be included in the planning process. Not because they want to control the trip, but because it makes travel feel shared.

“It’s really important that every person gets some input on vacation. Everyone has their own interests.” – Quinn

When teens have a say, even a small one, they’re more invested. The goal isn’t consensus on everything. It’s making sure everyone gets at least one thing they’re genuinely excited about.

✈️ Plane Survival Is an Art Form

Flying with teens is simpler than you think if you respect the basics: comfort, snacks, and sound control.

Their must-haves:

* AirPods or headphones

* Snacks (always snacks!)

* Comfy clothes

Sleep may or may not happen. Movies almost always do. Eye masks and finding the right leaning position can help if sleep is on the agenda.

🏠 Hotels vs. Home Rentals/Swaps: It Depends on the Destination

This was one of the smartest insights they shared.

Big cities? Hotels win for location. You’re out all day anyway.

Beach towns, countryside, or slower destinations? Rentals from Airbnb or home swaps with HomeExchange for the win, especially if everyone gets their own bedroom (and double bonus if it has a pool!).

“Having your own space is like an oasis for yourself.” – Fiona

That space isn’t about avoiding family time. It’s about recharging so the time together stays enjoyable.

🌊Water Matters More Than You Think

Whether it’s the ocean, a pool, a lake, or a river, water plays a quiet but important role in teen travel.

It creates space to move, unwind, and balance out busy days. Even in cities, having access to water helps teens slow down and feel grounded.

It’s one of those small planning choices that can make a big difference.

⭐ Their Favorite Countries (So Far)

Some destinations clearly made a strong impression:

* France – A standout for walking, food, and overall atmosphere, with Paris firmly holding the top spot.

* Italy – Loved for its food, beautiful cities and towns, and deeply personal memories made along the way.

* Greece – Memorable for its beaches, natural beauty, and slower, more relaxed pace.

* Mexico – Appreciated for its vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes.

* Costa Rica – A favorite for its small-town feel, strong sense of community, and surf-centered lifestyle.

🏙️ Favorite Cities

When it comes to major cities around the U.S. and the world, a few stood out:

* Paris for food, walking, and atmosphere

* London for scale, diversity, and endless things to do

* New York City for energy and variety

* New Orleans for showing a completely different side of the U.S.

* San Francisco, their home city, for culture, food, and architecture

“It offers so many of the things I like when I travel: culture, food, architecture. It’s a really amazing city.” - Quinn on San Francisco

🥐 Food Is How Teens Connect to Culture

This part made my heart very happy.

Food tours, cooking classes, markets, bakeries. For Quinn and Fiona, food isn’t just fuel between activities. It’s how you understand a place.

“Food is really the way to people’s hearts. You’re crafting love through something you can eat.” – Fiona

From food tours in Paris, London, and Greece to pasta-making in Italy to cooking classes in Lisbon and Costa Rica - these are some of their most vivid travel memories.

👀 Travel Changes How Teens See the World

Both kids spoke thoughtfully about how travel has shaped their worldview.

“Travel lets you understand where people get their heritage and culture from.” – Fiona

“For a little bit of time, you get to experience the life of someone who lives there.” – Quinn

That perspective sticks long after the flight home.

⚖️ The Ideal Travel Day Has Balance

Their perfect day isn’t packed wall to wall or spent entirely lounging.

It’s a mix of:

* Morning walks to local breakfast spots or coffee shops

* Exploring and shopping to understand local style

* One cultural tour or activity such as food tour, visiting a sports stadium, or seeing a live show

* Local lunches (the more non-touristy spots, the better)

* Physical activity, whether it’s swimming, biking, or another outdoor adventure

* Built-in breaks (chill time at the hotel, rental home, or beach/poolside)

* A good dinner to end the day

“Breaks are super necessary.” – Quinn

I completely agree, Quinn.

🌎 Where They Want to Go Next

Their travel wish lists are ambitious and wide-ranging, from Brazil and Argentina to Vietnam, South Korea, Morocco, and Egypt.

They’re drawn to places that feel culturally different and unfamiliar. As a parent, that curiosity feels like the biggest win of all.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Traveling with teens is less about managing logistics and more about understanding who they’re becoming.

Listening to Quinn and Fiona reminded me that these trips are doing real work. They’re shaping how my kids see the world, themselves, and other people.

Through travel, they’re building empathy, independence, and curiosity. They’re learning how to move through unfamiliar places with confidence rather than fear and discovering that the world is bigger, more complex, and more interesting than their everyday routines.

That feels worth every opinion, snack stop, and request for their own room.

p.s. If you haven’t already, be sure to read my friend Sarah Schulz’s guest post on “Top Tips for Traveling with Teens.”

📋 How to Travel Better With Teens: A Checklist

Before you book your next family trip, keep this in mind:

* Let teens help plan, especially when it comes to the location and the activities

* Put comfort first on flights: snacks, headphones, cozy clothes

* Choose accommodations where teens have their own beds, and ideally separate bedrooms

* Build in time near water or space to move

* Plan food experiences, not just meals

* Balance busy days with real downtime

* Leave room for spontaneity

* Remember that alone time helps together time

Tip: We love finding local tours, activities and experiences through either GetYourGuide (recommend downloading the app) and Airbnb Experiences.

As I mentioned in my last post, I plan to share much more content this year around traveling with teens, since so many of my fellow Gen X readers are in the same life stage. I’ll be focusing on top locations that are great to travel to with teens, and will be sure to share best spots to eat as well as recommendations for activities and experiences that teens would love. More to come!

Cheers,

Enjoy this interview? Please hit the ❤️ button, leave a comment below, and/or share this post with your friends and encourage them to subscribe to The Gomes Guide and listen to the Mixtape Travels podcast (available on Apple Podcasts & Spotify). Thank you!

But Kassie wasn’t exactly starting from scratch in Zürich. Years earlier, she and her husband had lived in Heidelberg, Germany, and loved the rhythm of European life — the culture, the travel, the ease of moving between countries. When his job offered an opportunity to move abroad again, they said yes, knowing that this chapter would look very different from their first. This time, they were older. Wiser. Expecting their first child. And about to learn what it means to build community, navigate a new language, and raise a baby in a country with its own traditions, norms, and unexpected gifts.

Our conversation goes far beyond the logistics of an international move. Kassie opens up about what surprised her, what challenged her, and what ultimately made Switzerland feel like home — from the shockingly generous postpartum care to the gentle independence instilled in Swiss kids, from the spotless streets of Zürich to mountain weekends in Vals and storybook strolls through Bern.

This episode is a thoughtful, funny, honest look at what it takes to start a new chapter abroad — and what you discover about yourself in the process.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

🇨🇭 Why They Chose Switzerland

Kassie and her husband had lived in Germany years earlier and always imagined doing another international chapter. When his company offered a relocation to Zürich, it felt like the universe nudging them forward.

They wanted a cultural reset, easier access to travel, and the experience of raising their future child in a different part of the world. They weren’t thinking about diapers or daycare yet — just the adventure of immersing themselves in a new culture and all the personal growth that happens when you uproot your life on purpose.

🚚 The Adventure (and Stress) of an International Move

Their move had everything:

* a global pandemic

* a pregnant Kassie

* two elderly cats (fully unamused)

* temporary housing

* a competitive Swiss apartment market

* and zero idea what life in Zürich would actually feel like

Switzerland doesn’t have Amazon, furniture is expensive, and more than half the country rents — so finding a place felt like a full-time job. After months of searching, they landed in a dream apartment in an 1850s building with exposed beams and slanted ceilings. A true “welcome to Europe” moment after weeks of uncertainty and a 24-hour cat-transport saga.

👶 Becoming a Mom in Switzerland

Kassie’s birth story is peak Swiss: organized, calm, and almost shockingly idyllic. Her daughter was breech, which meant a planned C-section — and yes, they took the tram to the hospital. Only in Switzerland!

She had an all-female medical team and a comforting, structured, totally drama-free experience. But the real standout was postpartum care. Kassie received 16 at-home midwife visits, fully covered by insurance (incredible, right?!). Midwives came regularly to check on her, weigh the baby, help with breastfeeding, and make sure she wasn’t drowning in new-mom exhaustion.

Sixteen. It’s the kind of support that every new parent deserves — and the part Kassie still talks about with the most gratitude.

⚙️ Life in a Country Built on Efficiency

If Switzerland has a tagline, it might be: “Relax — we already handled that.”

Zürich runs with almost magical precision. The streets are spotless. Trains arrive so promptly that a five-minute delay feels like a scandal. People routinely leave laptops and phones on cafe tables to hold their spot.

“The joke is they’ll come back and the phone will be upgraded and they’ll have a Rolex sitting there.”

When they arrived, Kassie and her husband set up their bank accounts, residency paperwork, and phone plans in a single afternoon. Even the bank appointment came with cappuccinos and chocolates in a private office overlooking Bahnhofplatz.

Only Switzerland could make opening a bank account feel like checking into a spa.

🗣️ Adjusting to Swiss German

Even though Kassie and her husband had studied German in Heidelberg, Switzerland delivered a plot twist. Swiss German isn’t a cute variation — it’s a completely different spoken language that even native Germans struggle to understand.

Everything official is still in High German, which helps, and English is widely used. But Kassie admits that speaking a foreign language can make you feel just slightly off — like a version of yourself missing some of your sparkle. Anyone who’s lived abroad knows that feeling intimately.

🤝 Building Community (Slowly, Then All at Once)

Community didn’t magically appear — she had to build it piece by piece.

Early on, Kassie joined Zurich Boss Ladies, a network for women entrepreneurs. It became an anchor and eventually led to her leadership role. She also volunteered with an NGO, Action for Women, for which she’s also on the board. Later, she became close friends with a few other parents in the neighborhood and at her daughter’s Kita. All of those together became the foundation of a strong, multilayered community she has developed in Zürich today. Yet, the relationships and friendships took time, they didn’t come instantly.

It took nearly two years before Zürich felt like a place where she had “her people.” Now, four years in, she has real friendships, routines, and a sense of belonging. This is the part of expat life no one posts on Instagram — but everyone goes through.

🧒 Raising a Child the Swiss Way

Switzerland is famously safe, and that shapes childhood in ways that surprise Americans.

Kids walk to kindergarten alone starting at around age five. Not as a quirky tradition — it’s a cultural expectation supported by an entire community. Kassie regularly sees schoolchildren confidently navigating the tram system or walking in groups with tiny backpacks and total independence.

Playgrounds are also intentionally bold. The slides are higher. The structures are more challenging. The philosophy is: kids learn confidence by doing.

It’s different, yes — but Kassie loves that her daughter is growing up learning physical courage and self-reliance.

🏔️ Swiss Getaways, Chocolate & Everyday Joy

When Kassie isn’t navigating language quirks or marveling at the efficiency of the tram system, she’s exploring Switzerland’s quieter corners — or eating chocolate. Truly elite chocolate.

Vals: A Mountain Retreat Worth Daydreaming About

For her birthday last year, her family visited Vals (see Kassie’s beautiful photos here) a tiny village tucked into the Graubünden Alps. It’s remote, quiet, and breathtaking — the kind of place that makes you whisper instead of talk. Think dramatic peaks, crisp air, and the feeling that time has stopped. It became one of their most memorable escapes since moving abroad.

Bern: A Postcard-Perfect Capital

Closer to home is Bern, one of Kassie’s favorite small cities in Switzerland. She loves its medieval charm, cozy pace, and elegant old town that feels a bit like Heidelberg — polished but warm, historic but lived-in. It’s her go-to recommendation for anyone visiting Switzerland beyond Zürich.

Swiss Chocolate: A Lifestyle, Not a Treat

When asked to choose her favorite Swiss food, she didn’t hesitate: chocolate.Not the mass-market stuff — the local shops crafting fresh truffles each morning. The milk chocolate that somehow hits differently when you’re eating it steps from the factory. The airport boxes you buy “as a gift” and then eat before landing.

Chocolate has become one of Kassie’s love languages with Switzerland.

What She Misses About California

Aside from family and friends of course - the produce. Full stop. Dry-farmed early girl tomatoes. Bay Area farmers markets. Sungolds. All the citrus. Dark leafy greens that taste like dirt. Peaches that taste like summer. And of course: the ocean. Lake Zürich is lovely, but it’s not the Pacific.

The Soundtrack of Her Swiss Life

Her pick for the song that best captures their life in Zürich absolutely charmed me: the Frog and Toad theme song from Apple TV.

It’s whimsical and warm, rooted in companionship and curiosity — exactly what this season of life has been for her family. A chapter defined equally by adventure and tenderness.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Talking with Kassie reminded me that moving abroad isn’t just a change of address — it’s a full recalibration of who you are and how you live. It’s the discomfort of not knowing what you’re doing paired with the thrill of figuring it out. It’s finding joy in the unfamiliar and pride in the small wins, like mastering a new transit system or finally understanding a Swiss-German greeting. Kassie’s journey is proof that home isn’t something you stumble into; it’s something you build, slowly and deliberately, through community, curiosity, and a willingness to let yourself be changed by a new place.

If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to start a chapter somewhere far from where you began — or if you simply love a story about courage, culture, and creating a life that feels deeply your own — I think you’ll really feel this one.

p.s. Don’t miss Kassie’s recommendations for visiting the beautiful city of Zürich here.

Meet Kassie Borreson

Kassie Borreson is an American commercial and editorial photographer living in Zürich, Switzerland with her husband, Andy, and daughter, Edie, who is three. A native of Napa, CA, Kassie lived for thirteen years in San Francisco and four in Germany before moving to Zurich with her family two years ago. She loves to bake sourdough bread, host dinner parties, travel with her family, tend to her many plants, enjoy a cappuccino and a good book at home, visit galleries with friends, and try new restaurants in town. You can follow Kassie and her beautiful writing and photography on her Substack, Photographer’s Miscellany.

If you loved this episode, please share it with a friend who’s dreaming of living abroad — or someone who just loves a good “start over somewhere beautiful” story. ❤️ As a reminder, you can also listen to all episodes of “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

So when I sat down with another friend from that same crew, Sofie Dolan, to hear about her two Camino journeys (most recently with her college friends in October ‘25), that little spark flared again. Listening to her talk about ancient stone paths, magical forests, tiny villages and the strangers-turned-fellow-travelers she met along the way, I felt that familiar tug. Not the “I should do this someday” kind — the “Oh, this is calling me” kind. And I think it will call you too.

The Camino is absolutely a bucket-list adventure, but not in the loud, check-the-box way. It’s a pilgrimage people have been walking for centuries — slow, intentional, grounding and profoundly human.

To quote Sofie:

“Some people love pickleball. I think I just love the Camino.”

What followed was one of my favorite conversations I’ve had on the podcast — all about slow movement, ancient routes, magical woods, humble villages, and the quiet joy of arriving in Santiago de Compostela, a place pilgrims have been walking toward for hundreds of years.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

How Sofie’s First Camino Happened — and Why She Returned

Like many great adventures, Sofie’s first Camino started with a casual invitation from a friend. She said yes mostly because she trusted the person asking. She didn’t know much about the Camino beyond, “People walk. A lot.”

And then she went… and something in her shifted.

Her first trip was nine days on the Portuguese Way. Her second, two years later, was six days along the Portuguese Coastal Route. Different routes, different travel companions, same sense of peace and presence.

“It’s not really a vacation. Seeing everything on foot is just… incredible.”

She talked about the rhythm of it — waking with the sun, falling asleep with the moon, and spending your days walking through landscapes that look like they were sketched by someone with a very soft pencil.

She said the Camino has a way of quieting your mind without you really trying. You take that first step, then the next, and suddenly you’re moving through a world that feels slower, kinder and almost sacred.

Magical Woods, Centuries-Old Footpaths and the Gift of Going Slow

This is the part that hooked me.

There are stretches of the Camino where you walk through thick, lush forests that feel enchanted. Old stone walls covered in moss. Filtered light. Birds. The occasional cow. Absolute stillness except for your footsteps.

No rush. No traffic. Just movement.

People from all over the world walk these same paths — retirees, young adults, solo travelers, friend groups celebrating milestone birthdays, and more. Everyone’s there for a different reason, yet somehow you all belong to each other for a moment. You say hello, exchange smiles, share water, trade stories.

“You’re never alone on the Camino. There’s a whole community moving with you, even when you don’t see them.”

There’s something comforting about that — the idea that people have been walking these same trails for centuries, leaving their energy behind. You can feel it.

The Towns That Steal Your Heart

Sofie lit up talking about two places in particular:

Poio

A tiny waterside village with narrow medieval streets and old stone houses. She compared it to a flatter, less chaotic Cinque Terre. They walked in, found a little spot for lunch, stared at the water and basically said, “Is this even real?”

“We sat down and thought, ‘Where are we?’ It was that magical.”

O Cebreiro

A mountaintop village with thatched roofs, an old monastery and a timelessness that’s hard to explain. Basic accommodations, sure — but the kind that remind you comfort isn’t the point.

Each town feels like stepping into a chapter of a very long story.

Accommodations, Room Reveals and the Joy of the Unexpected

Part of the charm of the Camino is that every night feels like a surprise.

Sometimes you land somewhere spectacular — a 16th-century manor house, a modern hotel with a breakfast spread that makes you emotional, or a place where you can literally order your eggs.

Other times? A simple room with a simple bed and the simple hope that you’ll sleep well enough to do it again tomorrow.

Their group even made “room reveal” videos on Instagram, which honestly feel like a show Netflix should greenlight.

Food: The Camino Love Language

Sofie could’ve talked about food for an hour and I would’ve let her.

Highlights:

* Tortilla española — the potato-egg miracle that could power a small nation

* Tarta de Santiago — the almond-lemon cake every pilgrim deserves

* Chocolate croissants — tiny pockets of happiness

* Hot chocolate — thick, rich, and perfect on chilly mornings

* Tapas and wine — the daily reminder you survived another day

“I’m a breakfast girl. Give me that Spanish Tortilla, a croissant and I’m happy.”

Same, Sofie.

The Cathedral: A Moment That Stays With You

When Sofie described arriving in Santiago de Compostela, she got quiet for a moment — which tells you everything.

After days of walking, sweating, laughing, complaining, photographing and eating your weight in tortilla, you suddenly turn a corner and see the cathedral.

Pilgrims have been having that moment for centuries. Thousands of feet have walked that plaza. Thousands of stories end in that square.

“It’s powerful. You’re tired, and then you see it — the cathedral — and it hits you all at once.”

She said it’s emotional in a way that sneaks up on you. You feel proud. Relieved. Connected to something ancient. Grateful for your body. Grateful for your people. Grateful for the journey that brought you there.

It’s not dramatic. It’s simple. And maybe that’s why it’s so moving.

Sofie’s Advice for Anyone Feeling the Pull

* Work with Tee Travel to help design your route, book your accommodations and help transport your luggage each day

* Train by walking regularly in your neighborhood or local park (it’s key that you enjoy walking!)

* Foot care is crucial - don’t forget Vaseline!

* Bring hiking poles, good shoes (Sofie loves Hoka Stinson), toe socks, “Darn Tough” socks, good pants, rain poncho - you can get everything you need at REI

* Use the app AllTrails to confirm you are staying in the right path (download before heading out on the trail)

* Write down the moments before they blur

* Walk with people who make you laugh

* Or walk alone and let your thoughts do their thing

* Don’t rush — slow travel is the point

* Let the Camino reveal itself

And above all…

“It’s a walking meditation. Enjoy the movement.”

So… When Is She Going Back?

October 2026. With her original crew. Plus maybe some new friends. And one day — maybe after retirement — she wants to walk the full 30-day route.

Why This Conversation Stayed With Me

Talking with Sofie reminded me that travel doesn’t always have to be big or flashy or perfectly planned. Sometimes the best trips are the ones where you spend your days walking through forests that feel enchanted, eating simple meals that taste like heaven, and talking to strangers who feel like old friends.

The Camino isn’t about checking things off. It’s about being fully present — step by step, mile by mile, town by town — until you arrive somewhere that feels bigger than yourself.

It’s ancient. It’s grounding. And it might be one of the most human travel experiences in the world.

So yes… someday I’ll walk it. And if this conversation stirred something in you too? Maybe you will as well.

Until then — buen camino, friends.

Meet Sofie Dolan

Sofie Dolan is the owner and creator of Flatbed Farm in Glen Ellen, Sonoma Valley. A community connector, Sofie has spent the last few years building a farmstand and gathering place that celebrates seasonal agriculture, regenerative farming, local makers, and the simple joy of what a small farm can produce. Whether she’s harvesting flowers, dreaming up new pantry goods with her chef partners, or organizing events that bring friends and neighbors together, Sofie blends creativity, hospitality, and a whole lot of heart into everything she does.

She’s a mother of three, an avid traveler, a lover of nature, and someone who often finds inspiration in her native Sweden. Originally an architecture major, Sofie has always been drawn to the way buildings and landscapes can evoke emotion. At the farm, she brings those sensibilities to life, using her design eye and creativity to create meaningful experiences on the property and to connect people through food, beauty, and community.

You can follow Flatbed Farm on Instagram.

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This blend of unique moments made her story such a fun conversation for the podcast, and I’m excited to share it with you. If Budapest has been on your “maybe someday” list, tune in to the episode to hear Lori’s inspiring journey and tips for travel planning.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

🏰 First Impressions: Old-World Beauty on the Danube

Lori’s first glimpse of Budapest was cinematic — Gothic palaces, stone bridges, and the Danube glinting in the late afternoon sun. The city’s two halves, Buda and Pest, are split by the river, and she loved how different they felt. Buda, with its castle district and cobblestone streets, oozes history; Pest hums with restaurants, bars, and that slightly wild energy of a capital city finding its modern rhythm.

“I think what made it feel so special was knowing that for decades, Westerners couldn’t go there. It still has this air of mystery.”

🧖‍♀️ Where She Stayed: Budapest’s Hidden Island

Here’s a fun fact I didn’t know: there’s a green island in the middle of the Danube. It’s called Margaret Island, and that’s where Lori stayed — in a historic spa hotel surrounded by gardens, walking paths, and even a tiny zoo.

Her hotel had multiple thermal pools ranging from “very hot to cool,” so she could wander down in her robe and take the waters like a local.

“At any time of day, you’d see people in bathrobes strolling through the lobby — mostly senior citizens heading to the spa,” she laughed.

She called Margaret Island her “hidden gem” of Budapest — a peaceful escape from the city that felt worlds away but was just a bridge crossing from both sides of the river.

🐎 Horses of Hungary: A Photographer’s Dream

Every afternoon, Lori’s group ventured into the countryside to photograph Hungary’s most famous horse breeds: Lipizzaners, Kisbéris, and Spanish stallions known for their grace and intelligence.

The landscapes were straight out of a storybook — green hills, small tidy villages, and winding roads. She was surprised by how pristine everything felt.

“The countryside is beautiful — green, rolling hills, and incredibly well kept.”

Her favorite subjects were the Kisbéri horses, a nearly lost breed revived by dedicated local breeders after World War II.

Evenings were spent reviewing photos, sharing meals with the group, and swapping travel stories — a perfect mix of creativity and connection.

🍽️ What She Ate (and Drank)

While her island hotel offered international fare, Lori did sneak into the city for a few local meals. Her standout dinner was on Váci Street (“buzzy and full of life”), where violinists roamed the restaurant while she enjoyed duck and traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash and paprikash.

She also highly recommends a Danube River dinner cruise — a little touristy, sure, but worth it. Between live music, dancing couples, and a glowing view of the Parliament building lit up at night, it was the highlight of her trip.

Drinks to try: Hungarian wine, local beer, and — surprisingly — gin cocktails, which are having a moment in Budapest.

🏰 History, Culture & Getting Around

On the Buda side, Lori explored the castle district and learned about Hungary’s early tribes and Saint Stephen, the first king to unify them around the year 1000. The Fisherman’s Bastion, with its seven towers representing the seven founding tribes, was a favorite.

She and a few travel friends booked a private Viator tour to efficiently see both sides of the city. (Pro tip: Lori says this is the way to go if you’re short on time.) Budapest also has a great tram system, so even DIY exploring is easy.

The language, however? Tough. “The only word I mastered was köszönöm — thank you,” Lori admitted. Locals were friendly in tourist areas but more reserved elsewhere — something she found interesting after spending time in Italy, where everyone chats with everyone.

💡 Lori’s Must-Do Budapest Tips

* Take a Danube River cruise at night. It’s touristy, yes — and totally magical.

* Explore Margaret Island. Rent a bike, walk the trails, and visit the gardens and pools.

* Visit in early fall. Warm days, cool evenings, and fewer crowds.

* Try the thermal baths. Whether it’s your hotel spa or Széchenyi Baths, they’re part of local life.

* Book a half-day city tour. Use Viator or GetYourGuide for an efficient overview.

* Learn one Hungarian word. Köszönöm (thank you) goes a long way.

Meet Lori Wright

Lori Wright has been a Producer in the Bay Area for over 30 years. Her experience ranges from broadcast spots to online video content and live events. She has produced commercials for HGTV and the Travel Channel, online spots for social sites, and numerous videos for the tech and healthcare industries. Her experience encompasses various storytelling techniques that include live action narrative, documentary and animation. She manages projects from inception to delivery, working closely with script writers and directors to help shape and budget creative ideas. Storytelling is her passion.

With her love of travel and photography, Lori keeps travel journals chock full of inane and entertaining stories. Her photography library is brimming with images from her professional video shoots and personal travels. She loves capturing behind-the-scenes stills from video productions that have taken her around the world to trips that tickle her sense of adventure and immerse her in new cultures.

She earned her BA degree from UC at Santa Barbara and her master’s degree from Goddard College in Studio Art and Photography. She attended the Book Passage’s Travel Writers and Photography Conference for two years consecutively, further inspiring her next photography and writing projects.

Lori, a native Californian, lives in San Anselmo, California with her husband and Labradoodle, Nellie, her trusty companion on the hiking trails of Marin.

Enjoy this interview? Please leave a quick ❤️, leave a comment below, or share this post with your travel-loving friends. It helps more people discover The Gomes Guide.

🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all podcast interviews here. 🎧

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Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃

In our conversation, Kathleen shares what it’s really like to live there — from mornings swimming in her family’s mango-tree-filled compound to afternoons spent boating to secret coves and long lunches that stretch into sunset. We cover her favorite local spots, the magic of Día de Los Muertos on the Malecón, and how Puerto Vallarta’s international community has reshaped the city post-pandemic. It’s part travel guide, part love letter — and a reminder that the best travel stories often come from the people who’ve made a place their second home.

So grab a margarita (preferably not too sweet, as Kathleen would say) and come aboard — this one’s got food, love, and a little Love Boat nostalgia woven in.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

A Bay That Feels Like a World

First things first — Puerto Vallarta is just one piece of the larger Bahía de Banderas, the second largest bay in the world (after San Francisco, fun fact). Kathleen calls it “a melting pot of cultures,” where Americans, Canadians, Argentinians, Ukrainians, and locals from Guadalajara all share the same sunsets and shrimp tacos.

She loves how easy it is to get to: just under three hours from San Francisco, or an hour and a half from San Diego. And unlike Cabo’s dry, desert vibe, this part of Mexico is lush, tropical, and green — “a true paradise,” as Kathleen puts it.

Boats, Beaches, and Fanny’s by the Sea

Kathleen is a self-proclaimed ocean person. Every visit starts on the water. She takes boats to small beach towns like Yelapa or Los Animas, both accessible only by sea. Her go-to move? Hop a water taxi (or better yet, charter a small boat), drop anchor, and head straight for lunch at Fanny’s in Yelapa.

Pro tip: if you board a restaurant’s boat, you’re expected to dine there — a fair trade for fresh ceviche with your toes in the sand.

She also loves exploring Los Arcos, the iconic rock formations you can paddleboard or snorkel around, and still marvels at Marieta Islands, the once-overcrowded “Lover’s Beach” that’s now thankfully protected.

Where to Eat (and Drink) in Puerto Vallarta

Kathleen’s list reads like a greatest-hits guide for food lovers:

In Puerto Vallarta proper

* Campomar – A surf-and-turf spot where you literally pick your fish from the ice bar.

* La Vaca – A moody Argentinian steakhouse with deep red interiors and excellent cocktails.

* El Barracuda – Beachfront dining where you can sip a drink, wade into the bay, and come back to find your plate waiting.

In Nuevo Vallarta

* La Dolce Vita – Cozy Italian for date nights.

* Tacos on the Street – Her all-time favorite for clean, flavorful steak tacos and what she swears is the best margarita in Mexico.

* Banana Bar – A local hangout known for its ribs (Kathleen insists: no sauce, just clean meat and sides for dipping).

In Bucerías

* Tarantella – Italian comfort food with a seaside breeze.

* La Casa by Thierry Blouet - Innovative dishes, reinvented classics and a fantastic wine list.

And if you’re wandering the beaches, keep an eye out for locals grilling shrimp skewers straight from the ocean. “They dive for them, cook them on the beach, and serve them with lime. It’s heaven,” she said.

The Heart of the City

On the Malecón, the seaside boardwalk, the city comes alive during Día de Los Muertos — with parades, live music, and art installations. The Romantic Zone is where old Vallarta shines: cobblestone streets, the historic church, and yes, the houses Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton once owned — connected by a bridge so they could escape each other when needed.

Life Between Two Worlds

Kathleen lives on a family compound that sounds like a dream — three homes surrounded by mango trees and a pool big enough for daily laps. Her mornings start with a swim and end with sunset walks to the beach.

She insists Mexico is deeply safe when you travel with respect. “The people are beautiful and kind,” she said. “They work hard and they welcome you like family.”

Side Trips Worth the Drive

If you have time, she recommends exploring beyond the bay:

* Sayulita – Fun and colorful, though a bit crowded these days. (In case you missed it, check out my Gomes Guide post on Sayulita).

* San Pancho – Smaller, artsier, and more relaxed.

* San Blas – Colonial, surfy, and mosquito-heavy (avoid in summer).

* Barra de Navidad – South of Vallarta, where the hillsides look like the south of France.

If You Go

* Fly into: Puerto Vallarta (PVR) — nonstop from most West Coast cities.

* When to visit: November through May for dry, sunny weather; June to October is rainy but beautiful (and less crowded).

* Currency: Mexican peso (bring cash for taxis and beach food).

* Don’t miss: A boat day to Yelapa, dinner at Campo Mar, tacos at Tacos on the Street, and a sunset cocktail in Nuevo Vallarta.

🎶 And Finally… the Theme Song

When I asked what song best captures Puerto Vallarta for her, Kathleen didn’t hesitate: The Love Boat. Kathleen fell in love and got engaged to her now husband on a boat in Yelapa. “Every time I’m there,” she said, “I feel like I’m back on that boat — totally in love, totally happy.”

Meet Kathleen Shanahan

A California native with an entrepreneurial spirit, Kathleen Shanahan is the CEO and founder of BOCA Marketing Agency — a purpose-built B2B tech marketing firm serving clients at the forefront of AI-enabling technologies, from innovative startups to established mid-market leaders.

The daughter of a Spanish-speaking mother from Buenos Aires (now based in Mexico) and a fifth-generation Californian father, Kathleen brings a bicultural lens to her work and life. She’s also the proud mother of two daughters who embody the California dream as competitive sailors and surfers.

A hands-on strategist and natural leader, Kathleen excels at turning vision into execution — whether guiding teams, driving client success, or rolling up her sleeves to make things happen.

Entirely self-made, she worked her way through college waiting tables at Mel’s Diner near UC Berkeley, where she earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in Art History and History.

As a media Latina fluent in Spanish, Kathleen spent her childhood traveling throughout Mexico and Latin America, living in Buenos Aires, Mexico City, and Puerto Vallarta. Now running her business remotely, she splits her time between San Diego, San Francisco, and Puerto Vallarta — where her mother and sister live full-time. The family holds Mexican residency and plans to retire between California and Puerto Vallarta.

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🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all podcast interviews here. 🎧

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Cheers!

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I invited Sylvia back on Mixtape Travels (you might remember our first chat about Japan) to talk about one of my favorite travel struggles: how to pack and fly like a pro. From capsule wardrobes to pre-flight rituals, Sylvia’s approach is practical, thoughtful, and a little bit genius. Let’s just say, after hearing her tricks, I’ll never travel—packing or flying—the same way again. And you probably won’t either.

🎧 Click on the above link to watch & listen to our video interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

🧳 Pack Early. Like, Really Early.

Sylvia’s number one rule: start packing early. Not the night before—two weeks before. She keeps a suitcase “semi-packed” at all times with duplicates of chargers, toiletries, and essentials. Every few days she’ll top it off or swap something out. Her secret? “I always check if my toothpaste is running low. If it is, I replace it right away.”

Her motto: “If you pack last minute, you’re guaranteed to forget something.”

💄Go Mini or Go Home

Sylvia is a minimalist at heart. She never checks a bag (“I don’t even own one of those big luggages!”). Instead, she lives by the rule of carry-on only—even for two-week trips.

Her essentials:

* Refillable leakproof Nalgene containers from The Container Store

* Mini makeup and toiletry kits—one for beach trips, one for work trips

* A mini first aid kit stocked with Advil, Pepto-Bismol, and a 5-day course of antibiotics from her doctor “just in case”

* A Tide-to-Go stick and cooling oil from Aveda (“trust me, you’ll thank yourself mid-flight”)

* Packing cubes for organization and a separate cube for dirty clothes

Her rule of thumb: everything small, everything light. “You don’t need your full-size shampoo. If you love it, decant it.”

👗 Dress Smart: Capsule Wardrobe, Travel Uniform, and Two Pairs of Shoes

Sylvia swears by a capsule wardrobe: simple, mix-and-match pieces that can be dressed up or down. Her uniform is a long, comfy dress paired with a wrap (“works as a blanket on the plane!”).

She travels with just two pairs of shoes—one walking pair and one dressier pair—and slips hotel shower caps over the soles to keep her clothes clean.

Her other musts:

* Compression socks (“non-negotiable, especially for long flights or anyone over 40”)

* A lightweight wrap or pashmina

* Slippers or flip-flops for the hotel

* Slip-on Ilse Jacobsen shoes

* A tiny travel umbrella (“mine’s from Samsonite—strong and small”)

👜The Carry-On Command Center

Sylvia keeps her “personal item” as a command center for survival:

* A fanny pack or crossbody with easy access to meds, lip balm, and sanitizer

* Neck pillow with a hood that goes over your face (or this one without a hood is her husband and kid’s favorite)

* Ear plugs made of wax (“they mold perfectly to your ears and actually block noise”)

* Eye mask with space for your lashes (no smudged mascara here!)

* Snacks: homemade trail mix (nuts + dried fruit + pretzels), granola bars, and reusable water bottle

💤Sleep Like You Mean It

Sylvia has mastered the impossible: sleeping on planes. Her secret formula:

* Wake up very early the day of travel so you’re tired by boarding time.

* Eat your last meal at least four hours before the flight.

* No alcohol. Ever. (“Have all the wine you want when you land.”)

* Hydrate—but stop drinking water a couple hours before takeoff to avoid bathroom trips so you can sleep soundly.

* Take two capsules of ZzzQuil, put on your eye mask, wax earplugs, neck pillow and let the magic happen.

She treats boarding like bedtime: “I brush my teeth before getting on the plane. It tells my brain it’s time to sleep.”

She skips airplane meals and entertainment (“Turn off the movie and go to sleep!”), then wakes up just before landing for breakfast and coffee. “When I land in Europe, I’m ready to go teach. No jet lag, no crankiness.”

🧘‍♀️Airport Zen

Sylvia arrives four hours early—yes, four. “That’s when I get my work done, eat, and relax in the lounge.” Her logic? Starting your trip calm sets the tone for everything that follows.

Her other airport wisdom:

* Enroll in TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry.

* Bring a “tushy cushion” (a foldable gel seat pad) for long flights.

* Choose bulkhead or emergency exit seats for more legroom.

* Always wear your heaviest shoes or coat to save luggage weight.

And her favorite airport in the world? Tokyo Narita. “They have free massage chairs and great sushi. Heaven!”

✨Final Words from Sylvia

“Pack early. Pack light. Stay hydrated. Don’t drink on planes. Sleep. And please—bring your own snacks.”

My Takeaway

Sylvia’s approach isn’t about fancy travel hacks—it’s about thoughtful habits that make travel smoother, healthier, and way less stressful. Her philosophy is proof that when you plan ahead, you actually relax more.

So here’s the challenge: Try one (or more!) of Sylvia’s tips before your next trip. Start packing a week or two early, swap your liquids into minis, stop eating 4 hours before sleeping, or skip that in-flight wine. Your future, well-rested self will thank you.

Meet Sylvia Klinger

Dr. Sylvia Klinger is an award-winning global nutrition expert, author, speaker, and the powerhouse behind Hispanic & Multicultural Nutrition Communications. With over four decades of experience, Sylvia has inspired communities around the world through her culturally rich approach to health and wellness. A bilingual registered dietitian, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies and contributed to countless publications.

Born in Puerto Rico to adventurous missionary parents, Sylvia developed a deep love for travel and culture early in life. She lived in Mexico for ten years before meeting her Irish-descendant husband in California. Today, they reside in Chicago near their two adult children. Her passion for food, culture, and global connection has taken her around the world, and with her insatiable curiosity and zest for discovery, there are still many more places she dreams of exploring.

✈️ If you loved this episode, hit the ❤️ button, leave a comment and/or “subscribe” to The Gomes Guide so you never miss a new story, tip, or podcast interview.

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This week on Mixtape Travels, I’m joined by travel writer Maggie Downs, who shares how one trip to the European Christmas markets transformed her from a self-proclaimed Grinch into a full-blown holiday romantic. She takes us through the fairy-tale towns of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, where the season feels more about connection and joy than shopping lists and office parties.

For Maggie, the magic of the Christmas Markets went far deeper than twinkle lights. Her first market stop was Heidelberg, Germany —a special place since her late mother was from Germany and absolutely adored Christmas. Being there again, surrounded by warmth and light, helped her reconnect with that joy in a way that felt both nostalgic and healing.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

A Different Kind of Holiday Spirit

“It’s not about consumerism or chaos. It’s about people coming together — and that’s what Christmas should feel like.”

Maggie describes how the markets are woven into daily life — locals meet friends for a glass of wine, grab dinner from food stalls, and listen to live choirs under glowing lights. It’s festive, but not forced. Think community gathering meets Hallmark movie, minus the cheesiness.

Each city has its own twist:

* Cities like Vienna host multiple markets — up to 20 different ones, each with its own personality.

* Popular themed markets include:

* Art Advent Market (Vienna): Local artisans and handmade crafts.

* Esslingen, Germany: A medieval-themed market with axe throwing and costumed characters.

* LGBTQ- and family-friendly markets in various cities.

* Distinctive traditions: In Jenkinbock, Germany, the town hall becomes the world’s largest advent calendar.

* And in Innsbruck, Austria, Maggie stumbled onto a Krampus parade — part folklore, part fever dream.

🌍 Where and When to Go

* Main destinations: Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, and Hungary. Check out this very detailed Christmas Markets Map of 1,800 European Christmas Markets (!!) that was created by Jeremy Rike and posted in the Magical Christmas Markets of Europe Facebook Group.

* Timing: Most markets open in mid-November and run through Christmas Eve, generally 9–11 a.m. to 8–10 p.m. Some larger markets continue to run the week after Christmas.

* Planning tip: Start early in the day to shop and explore, then return at night for lights, music, and that storybook glow.

* Entry: Free to attend; some activities like ice skating have small fees.

🍷What to Eat & Drink

If you love winter comfort food, visiting the Christmas Markets is a carb lover’s paradise. Maggie swears by the Hungarian flatbreads (lángos), potato pancakes with applesauce, Swiss raclette, and German dumplings smothered in sauerkraut and bacon. For dessert? Chimney cakes filled with Nutella.

The drink of choice is Glühwein (hot spiced wine), but there’s also Kinderpunsch, a non-alcoholic punch that’s surprisingly sophisticated. Each market even has its own collectible mug, so you can sip your way through Europe and come home with a suitcase full of adorable souvenirs.

* Savory favorites:

* Roasted nuts and chestnuts

* Potato pancakes (kartoffelpuffer) with applesauce

* Hungarian flatbreads (langos)

* Raclette, fondue, crepes, and dumplings

* Sweet treats: Chimney cakes filled with whipped cream or Nutella.

* Drinks:

* Glühwein (hot mulled wine)

* Kinderpunsch (non-alcoholic spiced punch)

* Hot cocoa, cider, and more.

💎 Shopping Finds

* Mix of local artisans and mass-produced (but locally made) goods.

* Expect ornaments, candles, jewelry, textiles, wooden toys, and Christmas décor.

* Maggie admits she brought home an entire duffel bag of ornaments and mugs.

* Price point: Surprisingly affordable. Most vendors accept credit cards, though cash helps at smaller stalls.

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🎶 Entertainment and Atmosphere

* Markets often feature choirs, local musicians, and dance groups, especially at night.

* Many offer ice skating, carousels, and kid-friendly attractions.

* Innsbruck, Austria stands out for its Krampus parades — locals dressed as the mythical creature who punishes naughty children.

🎒 Tips for Planning Your Own Market Trip

If you’re tempted to plan a holiday trip abroad, Maggie shared a few tips worth noting:

* Timing: Most markets run from mid-November to Christmas Eve.

* Transportation: Skip the rental car and travel by train. Frankfurt’s airport connects directly to the rail line, making it the perfect starting point. Also, most cities offer special Christmas market passes for trains and local transit.

* Packing: Bundle up — think waterproof parka, warm boots, gloves, and a foldable duffel for all the mugs and ornaments you’ll “accidentally” buy.

* Budget: Entry is free, food is affordable, and most vendors take credit cards.

Meet Maggie Downs

Maggie Downs is the author of the memoir Braver Than You Think: Around the World on the Trip of My (Mother’s) Lifetime (Counterpoint Press), an instant Amazon bestseller and a finalist for the Ohioana Book Award. Excerpts have been anthologized in Best Women’s Travel Writing and Lonely Planet’s True Stories From the World’s Best Writers. She is also the author of 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five, a guide to gentle family adventures.

As a journalist, Maggie specializes in meaningful travel, outdoor adventure, and wellness. Her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Travel + Leisure, McSweeney’s, and many other publications. In her newspaper career, she has received three Best of Gannett awards and was named Best Reporter in Ohio by the Associated Press.

Maggie lives in the California desert with her husband, their son, a rescue dog named Popcorn and a cat, Coleslaw. She is passionate about soup dumplings and coffee. (But not together.) She currently writes a travel newsletter on Substack called Be Back By Dinner. You can also follow Maggie on Instagram at MaggieInk.

If you enjoyed this post and interview, please give it a quick ❤️ to help others discover it, share with your friends, or please leave a comment below.

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Cheers!

Imagine stepping off a ferry boat and into another era — one where the air smells like salt and pine, the only sounds are birds calling and cicadas buzzing, and the pace of life instantly slows. Dewees Island, South Carolina, feels like a place frozen in time. There are no stores, no streetlights, and no cars — just six miles of untouched beach, winding trails through maritime forest, and neighbors who wave as they pass by in golf carts. It’s a place where kids roam barefoot, dolphins often escort the ferry, and the night sky is so dark you can see the Milky Way.

This week on Mixtape Travels, I spoke with Alicia Reilly—a full-time resident and turtle team volunteer—about what sets Dewees apart and makes it “magically wild.”

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Below are highlights from our conversation on what truly makes this barrier island a hidden gem.

Life on the Edge of the Wild

Dewees is the first line of defense when hurricanes roll toward Charleston. “We’re the storm’s first stop before it hits downtown,” Alicia told me. The island has just 75 homes now and will never have more than 150, thanks to a conservation easement that protects six miles of beaches, dunes, and maritime forest.

Here, nature takes center stage. Step onto sand with no buildings in sight—just the Atlantic, wild landscapes, and the authentic simplicity at the heart of Dewees.

Your Journey Begins on the Ferry

“There’s always this deep exhale when we step on the boat. By the time we reach the dock, it feels like we’ve left the world behind.”

Part of Dewees’s magic is that your journey begins with adventure. Arriving means parking at the marina on the Isle of Palms, loading bags into carts as gulls wheel overhead, and boarding one of two ferries—a cozy 14-passenger boat or a breezy two-level vessel. The 15-minute crossing typically brings playful dolphins swimming alongside, as salt air and anticipation mingle.

“When my boys were little, I’d promise them a dollar for every dolphin they saw on the early ferry to school,” Alicia laughed. “It kept them quiet long enough for me to have my coffee.”

A Front-Row Seat to Nature

On Dewees, unspoiled nature defines daily life. Each season reveals new wonders—bald eagles, baby owls, coyotes, and turtles—all part of the island’s uniquely vibrant environment.

Even the plants get in on the act — wild blackberries ripen in summer, just begging to be turned into jam or pie. Alicia described it perfectly:

“You’re eating from the land and living in it. There’s always something being born, something waking up, something changing.”

Neighbors Who Feel Like Family

Life on Dewees attracts people who want to be here — conservationists, birders, dreamers who are happy to trade coffee shops for coffee at a neighbor’s kitchen table. “My neighbor makes fish and grits every morning with whatever was caught the day before,” Alicia shared.

Community is at the heart of island life. Friday happy hours, a monthly book club, and weekly ladies’ coffee mean there’s always someone to talk to — or commiserate with about the tides, the weather, or the best time to catch shrimp.

Seasons to Savor

When I asked Alicia her favorite season, she couldn’t pick just one:

* Summer brings daily opportunities for swimming in warm ocean water, observing loggerhead turtles nesting at night, and enjoying long days that fade into clear, starlit evenings, perfect for beach strolls.

* Fall, especially in October, is known for the sweetgrass turning brilliant gold across the island. The days remain sunny and mild, making it ideal for birdwatching, biking, and outdoor gatherings as the weather cools.

* Winter offers tranquil beach walks, often with brisk breezes and few fellow visitors. This is the quietest season on the island, perfect for those seeking solitude, peaceful sunrises, and views of migratory birds.

* Spring bursts with life as baby alligators appear near the ponds, coyotes cross the dunes, and a vibrant chorus of frogs and birds fills the air. Wildflowers bloom, adding fresh color to trails and marshes.

📚 A Story Worth Sharing

The island’s way of life has even inspired a bestselling book series. Acclaimed author Mary Alice Monroe based her children’s trilogy The Islanders on the real-life adventures of Alicia’s two sons, who grew up exploring Dewees by bike, ferry, and barefoot wanderings. Their childhood — filled with turtle hatchings, marsh explorations, and tight-knit community life — became the heart of the stories. How cool is that?

Through these stories, readers everywhere experience Dewees’s wild beauty, meaningful simplicity, and tight-knit community—the very heart of its secret charm.

Planning Your Trip

Thinking about visiting Dewees Island? Here’s what you need to know:

📍 How to Get There

* Fly into Charleston International Airport, rent a car, and drive about 40 minutes to the Dewees Island Marina on the Isle of Palms.

* Check in at the ferry dock, load your luggage into carts, and board the ferry.

🚤 The Ferry

* Ferries run hourly and take about 15 minutes.

* Watch for dolphins — it’s almost guaranteed.

* The larger two-level ferry is a favorite for first-timers, but the smaller one is faster.

🏡 Where to Stay

* There’s a small number of short-term rentals available through the Dewees Island website.

* Book early — availability is very limited.

🎒 What to Pack

* Comfortable walking shoes and a bike if you can bring one — there are no cars on the island.

* Groceries (or arrange for delivery in advance).

* Binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for turtle season.

* A jacket, even in warmer months — ferry rides can get breezy.

✨The Magic of Dewees Island

Talking with Alicia reminded me that places like Dewees Island are rare — not just because of their beauty, but because of the way they make you feel. This is a community that listens to the rhythms of the tide, where life moves at a human pace, and where nature isn’t just admired, it’s lived alongside. It’s a glimpse of how things once were, and how they still can be if we choose to slow down and pay attention.

Meet Alicia Reilly

Alicia Reilly lives full-time on Dewees Island, a car-free barrier island just north of Charleston, South Carolina. After years of city life, she was drawn to Dewees for its wild beauty, quiet pace, and strong sense of community. Today, she balances work, raising her two boys, and life surrounded by nature — from sunrise ferry rides to beach walks and turtle season mornings. Alicia loves sharing the magic of this hidden island and what it means to live simply, sustainably, and deeply connected to the tides, wildlife, and neighbors who make Dewees so special.

💌 Did you love this interview? If so, pease give it a quick ❤️, leave a comment below, or share it with friends who’d be up for barefoot beach walks, starry skies, and a ferry ride with dolphins. Also, please consider sharing this podcast interview with others on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Thank you!

Meet Emma Shoemaker — storyteller, marketer, and DIY renovator — who recently moved her family from Florida to Queensland, Australia. Emma spent 11 years living in the U.S. with her husband (who grew up in Oregon), hopping between Wyoming, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Florida before deciding it was time to head back Down Under to settle as a family.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Here are some of my favorite moments from our conversation:

✈️ The Big Decision

Emma and her husband didn’t always have a master plan to move abroad — in fact, they’re not “big planners” at all. But when their youngest was born, they realized if they ever wanted to raise their kids in Australia, this was the window. The plan? Sell everything, ship only the sentimental stuff, and get their daughter enrolled in school before she put down roots in Florida. (Also: fight over whether to ship a $6,000 mattress that Emma won at a conference — spoiler: the mattress made the cut.)

🏠 Facebook Marketplace Adventures

Emma sold almost everything, which meant entering the wild world of Facebook Marketplace and yard sales. Think: mimosas on the lawn, strangers haggling over beach floats, and one guy asking where she kept her “war memorabilia.” By the time the movers came, they were left with a few tubs of memories and that infamous mattress heading to Australia by boat.

🌍 The Best Decision They Made

Instead of flying straight to Australia, Emma and her family spent six weeks in Europe — two weeks each in London, Amsterdam, and Stockholm. They stayed in places through HomeExchange, explored all morning, worked remotely in the afternoons, and celebrated Midsummer in Sweden with flower crowns. Basically, they turned “the awkward gap while waiting for your stuff to arrive” into the European summer vacation of dreams.

🏡 Buying a House… Without Ever Seeing It

Yes, really. They bought their house sight unseen with help from Emma’s sister and brother-in-law, who FaceTimed them from open houses. (Imagine your brother-in-law crawling under a house with a headlamp, showing you the foundation over FaceTime — that’s dedication!) Luckily, the house turned out to be exactly what they wanted: good bones, natural light, and a long list of renovation projects to keep them busy.

🔨 DIY Life (and Neon Unicorn Dreams)

When she’s not managing social media and influencer partnerships for a global travel company, Emma runs Shoe Makes New, a DIY and lifestyle blog where she shares her family’s renovation adventures. Their first big project? A full kitchen re-do. And now that the kids are older, they’re getting a say in their room designs (but Emma has promised to gently veto the all–neon-pink-unicorn look - ha!).

💡 Advice for Anyone Dreaming of a Move

Emma’s tips are gold:

* Try before you buy — They spent a month living in Brisbane before the big move to get a feel for daily life and costs.

* Be ready for the long game — Visa paperwork is not for the faint of heart. Her husband’s residency application was 80 pages long, complete with old text messages and receipts proving their relationship.

Emma’s story proves that moving abroad is equal parts chaos and magic — yard sales, shipping drama, midnight packing sessions, and moments where you just have to laugh.

Meet Emma Shoemaker

Emma Shoemaker is a storyteller, marketer, and DIY renovator who recently relocated from Florida to Queensland, Australia, with her husband and two young children. Her career began in journalism, where she spent more than a decade covering everything from climate and environment to crime and education. That passion for storytelling eventually expanded into marketing and digital content creation, where she now works for a global travel company managing social media and influencer partnerships.

Alongside her professional work, Emma runs Shoe Makes New, a DIY and lifestyle blog where she shares relatable renovation projects, thrifting finds, and family life. Since moving abroad, she and her family have embarked on the ambitious task of renovating a classic Queenslander home—sight unseen—documenting the challenges and joys of creating a home in a new country.

You can follow Emma on Instagram at @shoemakesnew.

If you enjoyed this post and interview, please give it a quick ❤️ to help others discover it, share with your friends, or please leave a comment below.

🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all podcast interviews here. 🎧

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With much gratitude,

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

A Lifelong Traveler from Brooklyn

Kara grew up in Brooklyn, detoured to Florida for college, then aimed her compass west after a snowy Halloween homecoming convinced her that California sunshine > slush. Culinary school brought her to San Francisco, and she never looked back.

A lifelong traveler with 80+ countries under her belt, she got hooked early through school trips, volunteer programs, and Semester at Sea. Along the way: visiting a friend’s home in Ghana (where she learned to make fufu), truffle hunting in Italy, and that infamous “wine tour + shark dive” day in South Africa. “Super dangerous, super memorable.” I’m sure it was!

From Chef to Tour Founder

After designing grocery products (think soups, cookies, mayo) and realizing labs and line-cooks weren’t her forever, Kara went to business school. A trip to Istanbul with her now-business partner planted the seed: food tours were the perfect blend of her professional love (food) and her hobby (travel), with low overhead and infinite storytelling potential. She apprenticed with local tour outfits, learned narrative craft, and started building Stretchy Pants stop by stop.

What Makes Stretchy Pants Food Tours Different

Kara trains guides with deep notes, not scripts. The result: tours feel like hanging with a clued-in local friend who’s obsessed with great bites and knows the stories behind them. You’ll hit must-eat stops, hear history tuned to your guide’s passions, and learn what to order next time you come back on your own.

Public Tours that Run Weekly:

* Gourmet Ghost Tour (North Beach): Food plus ghost stories? Chef’s kiss. (Age 12+.)

* Chinatown Dim Sum & Tea: Still the fan favorite. Come hungry; leave happy. (Kids 6+ welcome.)

* Fisherman’s Wharf / Pier 39: Yes, locals roll their eyes. No, they shouldn’t. There’s serious maritime history and legit eats if you know where to look.

I recently had the pleasure of going on the Gourmet Ghost Tour in North Beach and made a Reel about it:

Private & Corporate: Build-Your-Own Adventure

For teams, birthdays, and visiting friends, Stretchy Pants runs small-group, full-meal tours with optional upgrades (fancier dim sum, elevated Mission stops, beverage add-ons, even buses for large groups). They keep groups intimate (roughly 1:12 on public, 1:15 on private), then “round-robin” big events so it still feels personal. Popular one-offs include Pizza & Pub, Chinatown + North Beach combo, Ferry Building (a shorter, two-hour graze), and an Alamo Square → Hayes Valley breakfasty stroll.

Why Food Tours Work

Kara’s philosophy is simple: food + people + place. Restaurants are great, but meeting makers, tasting what they’re proud of, and hearing how a neighborhood evolved turns a quick bite into a memory anchor. Also, sometimes you just want someone else to steer the menu and feed you well. Amen!

What’s Next

Kara is currently toying with the idea of a Downtown Sports + Food tour, tapping San Francisco’s game-day energy and the exploding dining scene around the parks and arenas. Think: where to eat before first pitch or tip-off, with a thread for both the sports-obsessed and the partner who’s mostly there for the snacks.

Quick Hits from Kara

* Favorite travel moments: homestays, hands-on cooking, and foraging with friends long before it was trendy.

* Parenting note: Public tours welcome most kids (6+ for Chinatown, 12+ for Ghost), and private tours can be tailored to little legs and attention spans. Infants are fine to tag along.

* Local’s challenge: Revisit “touristy” pockets like Fisherman’s Wharf with fresh eyes. There’s real flavor hiding in plain sight.

Book a Tour

Craving dim sum, sourdough, seafood, or spooky stories with your sfogliatella? Check out Stretchy Pants Food Tours and book here. Bring your colleagues, your in-laws, or your favorite snack-loving teen. And yes, go hungry and enjoy!

Meet Kara Ricciardi

Kara Ricciardi, founder of Stretchy Pants Food Tours, brings a wealth of culinary experience and a passion for global flavors to her business. Raised in a Brooklyn-based Italian and Spanish family, she began culinary training at age 9, worked in restaurants, and served as a Pastry Prep Chef at the Central Park Boathouse. She further honed her skills at the French Culinary School in San Francisco and taught farm-to-table cooking to children with Americorps.

Kara's innovative approach led her to test kitchens, developing products from vegan cookies to popular spice blends. After earning an MBA in Global Entrepreneurial Management, she launched Stretchy Pants Food Tours, merging her food expertise with her travels to over 80 countries. Alongside her business partner, Ruby, Kara has built an award-winning company, recognized with the 2023 Traveler's Choice Award on Trip Advisor.

Follow Stretchy Pants Food Tours on Instagram.

Enjoy this interview? If so, please give it a quick ❤️, leave a comment below to help others discover it here on Substack or please forward to your friends.

Want to check out all other Mixtape Travels interviews? See here. You can also listen to all episodes on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Look for the (new!) logo.

Happy listening! 🎧

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With gratitude from San Francisco,

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Natalie and her husband live on a houseboat on Lake Union, and honestly, it sounds magical—sunsets, herons, rooftop hangs, and the occasional wild storm that sends patio furniture flying. Natalie has traveled to more than 100 countries, yet she speaks about Seattle with the wonder of someone who never stops exploring. She’s got that “visitor’s eye,” but with the insider knowledge only a local can share.

Seattle might be famous for coffee, grunge, and gray skies, but listening to Natalie, it’s clear the city is so much more. In this interview, we dive into her unique perspective on Seattle—whether you’re planning your first trip or think you know the city well—as Natalie shares her local insights, smart tips, and the kind of heart you only get when someone truly loves where they live.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

The Soul of Seattle

Seattle isn’t just rain and coffee (though you’ll find plenty of both). Its soul comes from the cultural layers built over centuries: First Nation tribes like the Puyallup and Duwamish, Scandinavian settlers in Ballard, and Japanese communities in the International District. The result is a city that feels strong, stoic, and proudly community-driven.

Seattleites love their icons — Nordstrom, Starbucks, the Seahawks — but also the quieter joys: hiking trails, whale sightings, and neighborhood parks filled with splashing kids and picnics.

When to Visit

Yes, summer (July and August) is glorious — long days, sparkling water, and mild temperatures. But Natalie swears the real magic is in April, May, and October. Spring stretches on forever with waves of blooming flowers, while fall turns the city neon with reds and golds that rival New England.

Hidden Gems Worth Finding

* Smith Tower: Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi, it’s now a hidden gem with sweeping Pioneer Square views, an old-school elevator operator, and a Balinese-inspired cocktail bar that hosts high tea.

* Golden Gardens: Grab a kite from the Kite Café, pack a picnic, and fly it on the beach.

* Marination in West Seattle: Hawaiian comfort food with killer skyline views, reached by a six-minute water taxi.

* Bainbridge Island: A 35-minute ferry ride drops you right into island life.

📍 Classic Sights Are Worth It

Touristy things are absolutely worth your time:

* Pike Place Market for food and wandering

* The Space Needle for those classic skyline views

* The Seattle Underground Tour for a walk through the city’s weird, hidden history

* Chihuly Garden and Glass for mind-blowing glass art that feels part museum, part fantasy world

Neighborhood Vibes

Every corner of Seattle has its own personality:

* Fremont: Funky, artsy, and proudly the “Center of the Universe” — complete with a solstice parade led by naked bike riders.

* Ballard: Once home to Scandinavian fishing families, now a hipster hub with breweries, a Nordic museum, and even a Viking beard competition.

* Georgetown: Industrial roots, now home to wine-tasting rooms, edgy bars, and destination dining at the Corson Building.

* Wallingford: Laid-back and foodie-friendly, with the city’s best poke (45th Street Deli) and a tres leches cake worth waiting in line for.

Sports, Sports, Sports

If you think Seattleites are casual about sports, think again. This is a city where Mariners games are on every bar TV — live or rerun, it doesn’t matter. And visiting the Climate Pledge Arena to see a Kraken or Storm game, or see a show, is a must in this futuristic, eco-conscious stadium.

* Hockey fever: The Seattle Kraken are still new, but season tickets sold out in under three minutes when the team launched. Fans are all in.

* Basketball dreams: The city still aches for the Sonics, but locals are convinced they’ll come back.

* Football & soccer: The beloved Seahawks reign, but don’t overlook the Sounders (men’s soccer) or Seattle Reign FC (women’s). Both draw passionate crowds.

* Baseball: The Mariners are hot right now — and games at T-Mobile Park are within walking distance if you’re staying downtown.

* Women’s sports pride: The Seattle Storm, made famous by Sue Bird, are still one of the WNBA’s top draws.

For visiting fans, Natalie suggests staying at The Populous or 1 Hotel, both chic new hotels within walking distance of the arenas and stadiums.

Eating & Drinking Seattle

Natalie made me hungry with her list of favorites:

* Chefs to Know: Renee Erickson (The Walrus and the Carpenter, The Barnacle) and Tom Douglas (Lola).

* Hot Tables: Filipino fine dining at Archipelago, Laotian at Taurus Ox.

* Local Favorites:

* Dive bar: 5 Point Café — bumper stickers, great fish & chips.

* Comfort food: Stone Way Cafe.

* Best breakfast sandwich: Russell’s (weekends only, until 3 p.m.).

* The Drinks Scene:

* Craft beer: Ballard and Georgetown breweries (Reuben’s Brews, Cloudburst).

* Cocktails: Canon and Russell’s for Mezcal Mondays.

* Wine: Tastings in Woodinville or picnics at Chateau Ste. Michelle.

* Spirits: Fast Penny Spirits, a female-founded Amaro distillery with a gorgeous tasting room.

Natalie’s other favorite spots include:

* Ivar’s on Lake Union – Known for their Copper River salmon, plus Native artwork and waterfront views

* Stone Way Cafe– Comfort food, beer, wine, and coffee all in one place

* Milstead & Co. – A good coffee stop when the weather allows for outdoor seating

* Tinte Cellars (Georgetown) – A chill wine tasting spot with a mission—part of sales support local charities

* Pacific Inn Pub – A dive bar in Fremont famous for its fish and chips. Anthony Bourdain-approved.

Getting Outdoors

This is where Seattle really shines: paddleboarding on Lake Union (Natalie even floats around from her houseboat), picnicking at Gasworks Park, strolling around Green Lake, or renting a Duffy boat for a lazy afternoon on the water.

For bigger adventures, hop on a Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge or the San Juan Islands. Or swim at Coleman Pool in West Seattle — a public pool with front-row Puget Sound views.

That “This is Home” Moment

For Natalie, it’s evenings on her houseboat roof. Picture it: swallows swooping at sunset, seaplanes landing on Lake Union, the Space Needle twinkling in the distance. It’s a reminder that Seattle isn’t just a city — it’s a lifestyle built around water, culture, community, and the occasional rain-soaked walk.

So whether you’re flying a kite at Golden Gardens, sipping Amaro in Georgetown, or ferrying off to Bainbridge for the day, Seattle rewards you for looking past the obvious— and that’s when the real magic begins.

Meet Natalie Compagno

Natalie Compagno is a travel journalist who has visited over 100 countries. She specializes in culture, food, and wellness. She is a regular travel contributor to Seattle Magazine, and Northwest Meetings + Events, and her previous content has been published by Huffington Post, Yahoo! Travel, Food52, Travel Age West, Asia Eater, and Frequent Flyer Destinations. She has recorded numerous podcasts and delivered in-person travel talks throughout the country. She owned the renowned and beloved travel bookstore Traveler’s Bookcase in Los Angeles for ten years, during which she contributed her travel and culinary expertise to movie studios, teams filming internationally, celebrities, and globetrotting locals. Natalie hosted an episode of Secret Swimming Holes on the Travel Channel that filmed in Spain. Compagno helps host Impact Journeys for Brighton Jones and she loves discovering and learning about new places, especially off the beaten path destinations and hip new finds.

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️ to help others discover it, share with your friends, or please leave a comment below.

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

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With much gratitude,

I recently sat down with Paula Tejeda, longtime San Franciscan, cultural ambassador, and founder of Chile Lindo—a now-legacy business in the Mission district that serves some of the best empanadas in the Bay. Paula grew up between New York and Chile, and our conversation was full of nostalgia, laughter, and some seriously good travel advice.

From stargazing in the Atacama to sipping tea with friends along the Central Coast, this conversation was a warm reminder that travel isn’t just about going somewhere new—it’s about recognizing what feels like home.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Here are some highlights from our conversation:

🏔 Chile: Like California, but Longer, Wilder, and Just as Beautiful

Geographically, Chile feels like someone took California and stretched it down the side of South America. The similarities are uncanny—Mediterranean climate, fertile valleys, a long Pacific coastline backed by towering mountains. Paula pointed out that if you took Chile and laid it over a map of the U.S., it would run from Maine to Southern California. It’s that long. And yet, in some places, it’s only 56 miles wide—just a sliver of land between the Pacific and the Andes.

You’ll find:

* A coastline that mirrors Big Sur, wild and breathtaking, but less developed (and thankfully, not trying to look like Miami)

* Central valleys that could pass for Sonoma or Napa, known for their wine, olive oil, and produce

* Snowy peaks and ski resorts, just a couple hours from Santiago

* The Atacama Desert, which rivals California’s own deserts—but drier, weirder, and perfect for stargazing (NASA tests Mars rovers there!). It is also the highest desert in the world, which is why it has the greatest number of observatories.

As Paula said, “You could take a picture of the Central Valley coastline in Chile and mistake it for California.” It’s familiar—but with its own rhythm, flavors, and spirit.

🎿 Wait, You Can Ski There? Yes—And It’s Incredible

If you're a skier or snowboarder used to chasing winter storms in Tahoe or Mammoth, here's a twist: head south of the equator, and you can ski in the middle of our summer. Chile is home to 18 ski resorts, with options ranging from family-friendly to full-on backcountry adventures.

The Andes are no joke—high elevation, incredible views, and fresh powder from June through September. Some of the most popular ski areas include:

* Valle Nevado, about 90 minutes from Santiago, with the largest terrain in South America

* Portillo, known for its bright yellow hotel, iconic views, and old-school charm

* Nevados de Chillán, further south, with natural hot springs to soak in after a day on the slopes

Paula told me when she lived in Chile, there were only two or three resorts—now there are nearly twenty. It’s grown fast, but the vibe is still refreshingly unpolished compared to U.S. mega-resorts. Think: dramatic alpine scenery, lighter crowds, and après ski with empanadas and Carmenère.

So yes—you can surf in the morning and ski in the afternoon. Chile really does have range!

🫶 Customs We Should Adopt

Chileans are all about community. Paula made a strong case for adopting once—afternoon tea with friends or family. It can be simple (toast and tea) or elaborate (avocado toast, pastries, cheese, and great conversation). It’s less about what’s on the table and more about who’s around it.

Unlike the U.S., where “let’s hang out” often means finding time six weeks from now, in Chile you just show up. That warmth stuck with Paula—and it is something I’d like to experience as well.

🥟 What to Eat: Beyond Empanadas

Yes, Chile is known for empanadas (especially on Sundays), but there’s so much more. Here’s Paula’s hit list:

* Pastel de choclo – Think shepherd’s pie meets summer corn pudding, with beef, chicken, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled egg, topped with basil-infused ground corn

* Completos – Chilean hot dogs with avocado and mayo (don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!)

* Sandwiches – Like the Chacarero: steak, tomato, and green beans.

* Dulce Chilenos and fine pastry line – Meringue cakes, Chantilly, manjar (dulce de leche), walnuts… drooling yet?

Chile’s food is fresh, balanced, and influenced by waves of immigrants from France, Italy, Germany, and the Middle East.

🍷 Yes, the Wine is That Good

Chile’s wine scene feels like Napa 30 years ago—wild, rustic, and full of character. Paula recommends:

* Montes Winery in the Colchagua Valley (and in Patagonia!)

* Viña VIK, with a jaw-dropping hotel and award-winning reds

* Miguel Torres and Bouchon—from families with deep European winemaking roots

Don’t skip a visit to Isla Negra, where Pablo Neruda’s former home now houses a museum—and a poetic, plant-forward restaurant called Nobel Neruda overlooking the Pacific.

🎶 Music, Memory & Powerful Women

Chilean music is steeped in poetry and protest. Paula grew up with jazz and bossa nova, but also pointed to artists like:

* Gabriela Mistral, the first Latin American Nobel Laureate in Literature

* Violeta Parra, whose folk ballad Gracias a la Vida was famously covered by Joan Baez

* Victor Jara, whose protest songs still echo today

The thread? Bold, brilliant women using art to shape culture.

🧭 Paula’s Travel Tips for Visiting Chile

Thinking about a trip to Chile? Paula says:

* Timing is key. Don’t visit southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District) in July–August—rain will block the views.

* Go for the eco-tourism. Chile has 44 national parks and some of the best stargazing, hot springs, hiking, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting in the world.

* Visit Mapuche communities. Learn from the Indigenous people who were never colonized, and still preserve their language, land practices, and artisan traditions.

* And yes, it’s expensive. Prices in Chile are more California than Costa Rica. But if you know where to go, it’s worth every peso.

🇨🇱 Chile in the Bay Area

Paula keeps her roots alive in San Francisco through Chile Lindo, her bakery-turned-cultural hub in the Mission, now officially a San Francisco legacy business. You’ll find empanadas, pastries, and—if you’re lucky—a jazz night across the street at her second location. Start with an empanada, show up for a glass of Chilean wine (empanadas are traditionally eaten with red wine), and make time for people. That’s the Chilean way!

Meet Paula Tejeda

Paula Tejeda is a cultural connector, storyteller, and longtime San Franciscan who’s been building bridges between Latin America and the Bay Area since the ‘90s. Raised between New York City and Chile, Paula has worn many hats: poet, columnist, event producer, PR pro, and founder of Chile Lindo—the beloved empanada shop turned cultural hub in the Mission, now recognized as a San Francisco Legacy Business.

She’s known for championing local artists, preserving Latin American traditions, and finding creative ways to bring people together—including launching Chile Lindo Live!, one of the city’s first outdoor concert series during the pandemic. Her latest project, Focus on SF Biz Owners, highlights conversations with local entrepreneurs, continuing her mission to celebrate culture, community, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines San Francisco.

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️ to help others discover it, share with your friends, or leave a comment below.

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

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➡️ Follow The Gomes Guide on Instagram here

Kyle has spent years leading sustainable travel initiatives and writing about how to explore the world responsibly. But her passion project, Travel by Music, might be her most creative (and addictive) endeavor yet. Each week, she curates a 30-song playlist from a different country, using music as a gateway into culture. The rules are strict but brilliant:

* Every artist must be born and raised in the country

* Playlists stretch across decades (back to the 1930s and 40s)

* At least one song must be in an indigenous or native language

Why the rules? “I didn’t want this to be just another influencer-style list,” Kyle told me. “Music is sacred. If someone handed me a bad playlist of Scotland or Chicago, I’d be offended. So I had to hold myself to a higher standard.”

That higher standard means the playlists take time—sometimes five or six hours of research for smaller countries, and months for massive musical powerhouses like the U.S. and England. Kyle goes down deep rabbit holes, navigating Spotify gaps, long-lost back catalogs, and arguments with friends over whether Freddie Mercury counts as British (spoiler alert: he was born in Zanzibar).

The results are magical. Kyle admits she fell in love with Peru before ever visiting, simply by discovering its music. Beyond pan pipes, she found an unexpected blend of Southeast Asian influences, Americana, rock, and bluegrass woven into Peruvian sounds. “I released that playlist and immediately thought—wow, this is a country I need to know more about,” she said.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

For Kyle, music captures something that food, art, or even language sometimes can’t. “A good beat is a good beat,” she explained. “You don’t need to speak the language to feel it. Music is accessible, and it tells you what a culture holds dear.”

Not every playlist has been easy (she’s still waiting on an apology from the Netherlands for its “saccharine” pop scene), but the process has led to surprises, especially discovering indigenous artists in places like New Zealand and Canada. That discovery inspired her seventh rule: every playlist must include at least one song in an indigenous or native language.

While Kyle doesn’t often splurge on live concerts abroad, she loves listening to buskers—though she cautions travelers to be extra careful in cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona, where pickpockets target distracted tourists. (Pro tip: keep walking!)

Her years as a Berlin-based tour guide add another layer of richness to her perspective. From leading trips to Potsdam’s palaces to teaching students about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, Kyle has always combined travel with deeper cultural meaning.

What’s next?

Kyle is excited to release her Canada playlist soon, and she’s bracing herself for Colombia, known as “the land of a thousand rhythms.” Off the page, she’s headed to Portugal for a friend’s karaoke pool party (which, let’s be honest, sounds like a playlist waiting to happen and a party I’d like to crash!).

Perhaps the best feedback she’s received came from someone who wrote to say they couldn’t travel at the moment, but Kyle’s playlists let them explore the world anyway. And that’s exactly the point. Travel may be expensive, complicated, or even impossible sometimes—but music can take you there for free.

You can find Kyle’s playlists on her Substack, The Conscientious Traveler, or on Spotify under Travel by Music. I highly recommend starting with Peru. Just be prepared to add a new country (or three!) to your bucket list.

Meet Kyle Durnan-Kerns

Kyle is a travel writer and former tour guide who focuses on sustainable and ethical travel. Her experiences range from beach cleanups on Dutch islands to cycling trips around the temples in Cambodia, kayaking adventures in Chicago, and street art workshops in Berlin.

She has conducted sustainability workshops for international schools worldwide, helping students understand the significance of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the impact of their actions in achieving these goals by 2030.

On her website and Substack, The Conscientious Traveller, she shares practical guides, eco-friendly tips and tricks, as well as insights into the sustainable travel industry.

Her latest project, Travel by Music, encourages tourists to immerse themselves in the culture of their travel destinations through music. She believes that engaging with other cultures is essential for being a more sustainable and conscientious traveler.

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or please leave a comment below.

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

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Travel Tips, Hacks and Apps for 2025

How To Be a Tourist in Your Own City

8 Ways to Travel Beyond the Bucket List

➡️ Follow The Gomes Guide on Instagram here

If Patagonia has ever whispered to you through a National Geographic cover, you’re not alone. My recent Mixtape Travels podcast guest, Carolyn Shimek, spent two months answering that call with her husband—overlanding in a truck camper across the wilds of Argentina and Chile. What she came back with: stories of ziplining over rivers, sipping mate with gauchos, weaving with an indigenous artisan, and discovering just how grand, unpredictable, and humbling this world can be.

Carolyn came back with thousands of photos and a heart full of gratitude. “What hit us over and over again is just how grand and diverse our world is. It’s such a privilege to witness it,” she said. And while Patagonia pushed her physically and mentally, she also discovered her own resilience in ways only travel can teach.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Here are the highlights from our conversation:

📍 The Itinerary: Two Months, Countless Landscapes

* Route: Starting in Punta Arenas and heading north to follow summer, Carolyn explored Patagonia’s raw terrain, plus detours to Chiloé Island, Tierra del Fuego, and the Atacama Desert.

* Transportation: A rugged truck camper gave them freedom (and flexibility when ferry schedules and diesel shortages threw curveballs).

* Planning Help: A custom itinerary by Kristin from Echo Experience Patagonia, found via Ruta de los Parques, connected them to lesser-known treks and private estancia.

🏕 Life on the Road

* Campground Strategy: They used the iOverlander app to find everything from remote wild camping spots to municipal parking lots with electrical hookups.

* Laundry Realness: Self-serve laundromats? Not a thing. Laundry involved texting local women via WhatsApp and hoping your socks survived the 24-hour turnaround.

* Fuel FOMO: In Argentina, they sometimes had to adjust plans due to diesel shortages—but always found a way (with a little anxiety).

🌎 Chile vs. Argentina: Same Region, Different Vibes

* Argentina: Wide open spaces, laid-back energy, lots of estancias (ranches), Route 40, and wild wind. Oh, and those mysterious bus-stop-like shelters? They’re for wind-blown cyclists.

* Chile: More infrastructure, more seafood, and a longer coastline. They stayed in Torres del Paine National Park for a week and spent a day just hunkered down in the camper because of gale-force winds.

🧗‍♀️ Treks, Glaciers & Ziplining (No, Really)

* Carolyn hiked across private lands and glaciers, sometimes not seeing another soul for days.

* One trek ended in an unexpected scramble after discovering the glacier had receded and their planned route vanished.

* She zip-lined over rivers—out of necessity, not for thrills—and credits great guides (and her own courage) for keeping things safe and spectacular.

🧶 Culture, Cuisine & Connection

* On Chiloé Island: She spent two days with an indigenous weaver learning new loom techniques and dyeing fiber with native plants—a true cross-cultural exchange.

“I learned how to weave with an indigenous artisan on Chiloé Island using local plant dyes. It was the most beautiful kind of cultural exchange.”

* In Tierra del Fuego: She wishes they had stayed longer—coastal hikes and hidden peaks made it feel like the end of the Earth in the best way.

* Atacama Desert: High-elevation landscapes, geothermal wonders, flamingos, and stargazing. “Like no other place on Earth,” Carolyn said.

* Food: Empanadas were everywhere, pizza surprisingly common, and seafood divine (especially mussels and oysters). Her favorite drink? A Calafate berry pisco sour. Bonus: antioxidants.

* Mate Culture: The ritual and etiquette around Argentina’s favorite caffeinated brew made a lasting impression. “Nothing happens until mate has been served.”

🧳 Gear to Pack (Trust Carolyn on This)

* Waterproof boots and shell layers = lifesavers.

* Wool base layers = her new religion.

“Wool base layers changed my life. You can wear them for days. They don’t stink. I’m a total convert.”

* A pair of shorts? “Totally useless—except for two days in the desert.”

* Starlink was more common than expected, but she still recommends building in buffer days. Between ferry delays, wild winds, and unexpected roadblocks, flexibility is essential.

What’s Next for Carolyn?

She’s already planning a 45-day adventure across Central Asia, exploring the Silk Road through Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and beyond. Don’t worry—we’ll have her back on the podcast when she returns!

Meet Carolyn Shimek

An avid traveler, novice weaver, and generally happy camper, Carolyn spends her summers as a park ranger, leading cliff dwelling tours at Mesa Verde National Park. The rest of the year, she and her husband travel the globe, drawn to remote landscapes and rich cultural traditions. Their adventures include trekking ancient trade routes in Bhutan, rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, camping in Botswana and Patagonia, and sleeping atop a fire watchtower in Colorado. They’ve shared tea with EMTs in Jordan, danced with gauchos in Argentina, and woven alongside artisans in Morocco and Chile. Wherever they go, Carolyn brings curiosity, joy, and a deep appreciation for place.

Originally from the Chicago area, Carolyn spent over 40 years on California’s central coast, working in environmental education, public health, transportation planning, and communications. Four years ago, she and her husband made the move to southwest Colorado—a long-held dream. When not on the road or ranger-ing, Carolyn is immersed in fiber arts, learning traditional weaving and dyeing techniques and spinning local Churro wool. Whether planning their next trip to the Silk Road or hiking the mesas and mountains near home, Carolyn is always chasing beauty, connection, and adventure.

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or leave a comment below.

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

How to Be a Responsible Traveler Abroad This Summer (And Always)

Travel Tips, Hacks and Apps for 2025

How To Be a Tourist in Your Own City

8 Ways to Travel Beyond the Bucket List

➡️ Follow The Gomes Guide on Instagram here

Robert Holmes, one of the most sought-after photographers in the world, doesn’t shoot to impress. He shoots to connect. And that shows up not only in his work but in the way he talks about travel—equal parts thoughtful, funny, opinionated, and deeply experienced.

Bob has been photographing the world since the late ‘70s, working for top travel publications like National Geographic and Departures. He’s shot everywhere - from Bhutan to Napa - and even spent two unforgettable weeks staying with Ansel Adams (Yes, that Ansel Adams). His work has earned him armloads of awards and a loyal following, but what I appreciate most about Bob is how grounded and honest he is—about photography, about travel, and about the messy, unpredictable beauty of both.

Our Mixtape Travels podcast conversation covered a lot: what makes a great travel photo, how to respectfully photograph people, what social media is doing to once-hidden corners of the world, and why some of the best images often come from showing up and trusting your instincts.

So if you’re someone who loves travel, photography, or some great stories from the road, this one’s for you.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

A few gems from our conversation:

On what makes a great travel photo

“It’s a photograph that captures a sense of place. One that allows you to smell the street food, feel the humidity, and hear the clatter of life beyond the frame.”

He says the image must go beyond pretty—it has to be true. “It doesn’t have to be beautiful,” Bob told me. “It has to be real.” That reality, he admits, doesn’t always sit well with advertisers.

On being lucky (and bold)

Back in the day, Bob called Ansel Adams, whom he had met briefly before, when he was in California. Adams not only invited him to dinner in Monterey—he invited him to stay. Bob ended up living there for two weeks, sipping martinis with Ansel and a rotating cast of creatives: gallery owners, orchestra conductors, artists, photographers.

“People always say I’m lucky. But you have to be open to the moment—and be willing to take the risk.”

On respectful photography—especially of people

This is one of the biggest lessons I took from our conversation. In places like Morocco or Myanmar, Bob has seen how damaging it can be when photographers treat people like props.

“Establish a relationship. Smile. Buy something. Talk. If they say no, thank them and walk away.”

He also noted how a giant lens can be intimidating—so sometimes, yes, even Bob Holmes shoots on an iPhone. “The best gear is the one that doesn’t get in the way.”

On editing

You may love the photo because it was hard to get. But the viewer doesn’t know that. To Bob, the best editing advice is this:

“Give it time. Live with your photos. Revisit them. The emotional attachment fades, and you can see the image for what it really is.”

The Fruit Bowl Problem

Bob has spent decades shooting for glossy magazines and luxe travel brands—but he’s not a fan of selling a fantasy.

“I’ve always been skeptical about showing bowls of fruit and bunches of flowers in a hotel room. Because that’s not what the visitor’s going to get—unless they’ve sprung for the presidential suite.”

He told me about a striking photo he shot for Departures: a couple on Mumbai’s Chowpatty Beach, with what looked like a buried body in the sand (it was actually a plaster religious idol). The editor insisted on putting it on the cover because it was true. The publisher? Not thrilled.

“It didn’t show Mumbai in a flattering light, but it was real. That’s what I loved shooting.”

Bob’s advice: Don't oversell. Don’t fake it. A good photo—and a good story—will stand on its own if it’s honest.

The Instagram Effect

Bob doesn’t hold back when it comes to the impact of social media on travel.

“Instagram is responsible for destroying more places than anything.”

He’s not anti-Instagram—he’s on it too—but he’s deeply frustrated by how it’s turned travel into a performance. Everyone’s chasing the same photo. The same selfie. The same viewpoint.

“It’s sad to see when people treat travel like a checklist. A selfie moment. Instead of truly experiencing a place—getting to know the people, supporting the local economy, being present.”

He described watching tourists in Myanmar approach Kayan women—famous for their brass neck rings—snapping photos without eye contact or conversation.

“They treat them like animals in a zoo. It’s appalling. No attempt at a relationship. No humanity. Just a prop for their Instagram.”

For Bob, a better photo often starts with a better conversation.

On Overtourism, Travel Gems, and Pico Iyer

This led to a bigger conversation about overtourism—and the guilt that sometimes comes with sharing a place you love.

Bob brought up his longtime friend and travel writer Pico Iyer, who wrote a New York Times piece about the ethical dilemma travel writers face: If your story sends people to a quiet, unspoiled destination, are you helping that place—or hurting it?

“Pico’s point was that it’s not about handing people a checklist. It’s about encouraging them to discover their own secrets. Not just pointing them to the obvious.”

And Bob agreed.

“You mention a little bistro in Paris, suddenly two million people know about it—and a million are going to try to visit. That can destroy it.”

On what travel photography has taught him most

“My most meaningful photos? Family. Friends. It’s always about the people.”

Even after all the breathtaking shots of the Taj Mahal, it was the time a woman in rural Vietnam invited him up for dinner—because he’d taken the time to connect with her on a previous trip—that stuck with him. They’re still in touch via Facebook.

A few other quick takeaways:

Places that inspire: Cuba, India, Vietnam

Places that were tough: Sao Paulo (“so uniform”), Morocco (“hostile toward photographers”)

Least favorite part of his job? Planning. (“I always think I’ll screw it up. And I have.”)

Favorite gear: His Leica Q series (“looks like a point-and-shoot, but it’s not threatening”)

Pro tip: Always back up your photos—in three places.

A book worth displaying

Bob’s latest book Passages is a visual memoir full of both his award-winning images and the personal stories behind them. He created it in part for his daughters, to share the life and work he’s often found hard to talk about. It’s thoughtful, honest, and stunning. You won’t find it on Amazon, but you can purchase it directly here. I proudly display my copy of Passages in my dining room and flip through it frequently.

And finally, if you’re a writer or photographer who wants to connect with others in the travel space, don’t miss the Travel Writer’s and Photographers Conference from August 14-17, 2025 in Corte Madera, CA. Bob co-leads it each year with Don George, and it’s a rare kind of creative love fest. Trust me—you’ll walk away inspired.

Meet Robert Holmes

Bob's remarkable career started in his native Britain in 1975 when he covered the successful British Everest Expedition for Paris Match and the London Daily Mail. The following year he visited California for the first time at the invitation of Ansel Adams and in 1979 he moved to Marin County, California where he still lives.

Bob has traveled extensively in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North and South America for the world's top travel magazines. His assignments have included searching for snow leopards in the remote valleys of western Nepal for National Geographic Magazine, journeying into the rain forests of Borneo with Penan tribesmen for Islands magazine, and crossing the Great Indian Desert on a camel for Departures. Willie Landels, former editor of both Departures and Harpers and Queen, called Holmes" one of the most intelligent photographers I have worked with, who also has a wonderful sense of color and design."

Bob has illustrated over 50 books, written six, and has regularly been one of the elite photojournalists invited to participate in the acclaimed "Day in the Life" series of books. He has won many awards, and the Society of American Travel Writers named him Travel Photographer of the Year in 1990,1992, 2010, 2012, 2015, and 2017. He has been elected a Fellow of both the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographical Society. He has won the International Wine Photographer of the Year award from Errazuriz and the International Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year award. Most recently, he was given the Silver Award for photography books by IPPY for his memoir, Passages.

Bob is also a gifted and enthusiastic teacher who truly enjoys sharing his experiences and expertise. Bob has led workshops and tours for many organizations, including Geographic Expeditions, Wilderness Travel, the California Academy of Sciences, and UC Berkeley.

Subscribe to Bob’s Substack here:

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or please leave a comment below.

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

How to Be a Responsible Traveler Abroad This Summer (And Always)

Travel Tips, Hacks and Apps for 2025

How To Be a Tourist in Your Own City

8 Ways to Travel Beyond the Bucket List

When I asked Renee what keeps pulling her back to Rome, she didn’t hesitate: vibrancy and connection.

“Italians live life out in the open. There’s a joy in just being together. And there’s something about that that feels deeply human,” she said. No one’s rushing to the next achievement. They’re sitting in the piazza, chatting with neighbors, maybe sharing a bottle of wine. And that’s enough.

It’s not just about the food (though, of course, the food is amazing). It’s about the way people live. With intention. With each other.

Whether you’re planning your first Roman holiday or just daydreaming about a return to the Eternal City, you won’t want to miss my conversation with Renee.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

First Impressions: Ancient Layers

Renee was just 15 on her first trip to Rome, but one thing stuck with her: the sheer age of the city. A guide pointed to a “new” bridge built 700 years ago—and it blew her mind. That feeling has never left. “Rome is like history layered upon history, and you can go deeper and deeper into it,” she said.

Where Life Happens: Community, Connection & the Town Square

If there's one thing Renee misses most when she leaves Rome, it's the sense of community. The real, in-person kind. The kind that happens in piazzas—town squares—where grandparents, toddlers, teenagers, and everyone in between gather without planning. Where the act of being together is the point, not a scheduled event on a calendar.

“It’s what I crave,” she told me. “The old guys sitting on benches, the little kids running around, the families catching up. You don’t drive to community—it’s right outside your door.”

Rome reminds her of what American cities often lack: built-in opportunities to connect. Not on a screen, not in a Slack channel, but on the street. It’s messy and beautiful and human.

She even told me about her Italian dad, who moved to small-town Alabama and still managed to recreate his Roman rhythm: one butcher, one fish guy, one pharmacist—each a relationship, not just a transaction.

Beyond the Postcard Sights

Yes, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican are iconic—but if you want to feel the real Rome, Renee recommends wandering the lesser-known streets. Her favorite? Via Giulia, a leafy, historic stretch that bridges Trastevere and Campo de' Fiori. Keep an eye out for the cobbler whose family has worked there for generations.

Another local gem: the Catacombs. Creepy? A little. Fascinating? Absolutely. Renee visited with her Roman aunt, and it remains one of the most memorable experiences she’s had in the city.

Neighborhoods to Know

* Trastevere: Renee lived here while studying abroad. It's lively, young, and full of character.

* Monti: Think of it as Trastevere’s more grown-up cousin. Upscale boutiques, intimate trattorias, and less chaos.

Where to Eat (and Eat Again)

Rome is full of unforgettable meals—especially if you get off the beaten path:

* Taverna Romana: A tiny, family-run restaurant in Monti that welcomed Renee back three nights in a row. She was practically part of the family by night three.

* Enoteca Corsi: A hidden gem where she accidentally tried to pay in pesos. Pro tip: no English on the menu usually means you’ve found a winner.

* Trattoria Da Enzo: A local favorite known for handmade pastas and classic Roman dishes.

Rome in the Off-Season

Want to avoid the crowds and oppressive summer heat? Renee swears by visiting during the Christmas holidays. The city is decorated, the weather is mild, and even some normally closed basilicas are open. “It felt like we had the city to ourselves,” she said. “It was magical.”

Local Life Lessons

Renee had a few reminders for travelers:

* Dress up a little. Italians care about fashion and craftsmanship, and it’s worth showing respect.

* Walk the neighborhoods. Ditch the itinerary and follow your curiosity.

* Follow the rhythms. Eat later, sip your espresso at the bar, linger over meals, and lean into the slowness.

* Travel by train when you can. It’s efficient, affordable, and part of the experience.

Soundtrack of the City

If Rome had a theme song? Renee picked Rondo Veneziano—a lively classical piece she grew up listening to with her Italian father. “It’s dramatic, beautiful, and alive,” she said. Just like the city.

Planning Your Own Roman Holiday?

Make time for the big sights, but don’t skip the side streets. Say yes to the second espresso. Accept the free glass of wine. Wander aimlessly. And maybe leave room in your suitcase for a pair of handmade Italian boots.

Meet Renee Frojo

Renee Frojo is a brand strategist, storytelling coach, and former journalist who helps founders and solo business owners build reputations people trust. Her specialty is turning raw, personal experiences into powerful brand narratives. By day, she builds story-driven brands; by night, she wrangles two kids as a single mom and dreams up her next trip. Growing up in Cancun, Mexico with parents from around the world, Renee has traveled to over 30 countries and counting.

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or leave a comment below.

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With much gratitude,

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That’s how he describes Half Moon Bay, the Northern California town he calls home — just 30 minutes south of San Francisco, but a world apart. It’s got windswept beaches, a tight-knit community, and, yes, spotty cell service that nudges you actually to look up and be where you are.

Marcus, radio host of Star 101.3’s “Marcus & Corey” morning show, didn’t plan to move here. One spontaneous detour down Highway 1 changed everything. The working harbor, the ocean views, the low-key vibe of El Granada (population: around 5,000)—he was in. These days, he wakes up to a Pacific panorama, shops at local markets, and walks to the grocery store in his slippers.

He calls it, “Tahoe on the ocean.”

But Half Moon Bay is more than just a pretty coastal backdrop. It’s the kind of place where neighbors borrow tools, tree trimming comes with permission slips, and traffic is a small tradeoff for a slice of paradise. It’s where you can eat fish caught that morning, food made with love, and still walk home under a blanket of stars.

If you are a fan of small coastal towns, chill vibes, awesome events, fantastic food, and fab karaoke — you won’t want to miss this interview!

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

Best Time to Visit

Weekdays are chill and local. Weekends? A bit of a tourist rodeo. “Get your groceries early and then hide” is the local survival strategy. And if you’re visiting, heed this golden rule: arrive before 10 a.m. or prepare for bumper-to-bumper regret.

Can’t-Miss Local Eats

Marcus is a self-described foodie, and his list of favorite spots reads like a greatest hits of Half Moon Bay dining. Here are some must-visits:

Near the Harbor:

* Old Princeton Landing (OPL): Order the Thai Cod Curry. It’s a local secret and a family recipe. Bonus: they use veggies from Iacobi Farms, which supplies top SF restaurants.

* Jettywave Distillery: Mediterranean small plates by chef José Luis Valdez, formerly of Gibraltar. Think meze platters and craft cocktails in a shipping container.

* Breakwater BBQ: Chef Wyatt is a pitmaster phenom. The burger—with chopped brisket on top—and the mystery-seasoned Gold Dust Fries are next level.

* Dawn Patrol Coffee: Great coffee served out of a shipping container. Walk here on a Saturday morning and thank Marcus later.

* Mezza Luna: A homestyle Italian classic by the harbor.

Downtown Highlights:

* Dad’s Luncheonette: Burgers and specials served from a bright red caboose by a former Michelin-starred chef who traded fine dining for surf breaks.

* The Press: Great for breakfast—don’t skip the ham and cheese croissants or the Cubano.

* Pasta Moon: Elegant Italian from Chef Kim with a strong local following.

* San Benito House: Don’t miss the chicken chili verde and a spicy margarita on the patio.

* Vinoteca: Excellent wine bar with a family-friendly arcade next door (smart planning).

* Zavala Square: Find wine, gelato, and chill vibes.

* Fish Wife Sweets: Baked goods that are basically addictive. Mariah just opened her first storefront—look for her shop near the downtown garden center.

Bonus Hidden Gem:

* Ciya Mediterranean Cuisine: A Turkish family-run spot with braised lamb shank, baklava, and warm, old-school hospitality.

Local Events Worth Planning Around

Marcus is a big fan of:

* 4th of July Parade: Marcus emcees! Downtown vibes, quirky charm.

* Pumpkin Festival: Come early, eat pancakes with the Half Moon Bay High basketball team, and leave by noon.

* Halloween in Montara: Not for the little ones—this one’s full-blown spooky.

* Night of Lights & Lighted Boat Festival (December): Think dancing Santas, decorated boats, and community spirit.

Where to Shop

* Jupiter & Main: For the guy who has everything—or didn’t know he needed whiskey-flavored toothpicks.

* Mavericks Surf Company & HMB Board Shop: Great for comfy, beachy clothes (even if you’re more flip-flops than fins).

Karaoke at Cameron’s: A Local Rite of Passage

Don’t leave town without stopping by Cameron’s Pub on a Friday or Saturday night. It’s family-friendly, weirdly wonderful, and totally welcoming. Marcus might even be there, microphone in hand, belting out Billy Joel’s Piano Man, Little Lion Man from Mumford & Sons, Hard to Handle by The Black Crowes, or I’ll Be Back from Hamilton.

Local Tips for Visitors

* Avoid Highway 1 mid-day on weekends.

* Don’t expect reliable cell service—and that’s the point.

* Respect the ocean. Sneaker waves are real, and locals take cleanup seriously.

* If you're visiting the beaches, Miramar and Surfer’s Beach are great bets. For something quieter, do your own research into Moss Beach.

Meet Marcus D.

A Northern California native, Marcus has been a prominent voice in Bay Area radio for over two decades, co-hosting Star 101.3's Morning Show for a remarkable twelve years. Marcus is a homeowner in Half Moon Bay with his wife and 10-year-old daughter and fully enjoys that "Coastside life" and exploring all the fascinating parts of the Bay Area. Beyond broadcasting, Marcus champions local causes, notably as the emcee and auctioneer for Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital's Jewel Ball and Marin Humane's Annual "Tails By Twilight" Gala. A fervent supporter of the 49ers, Warriors, and Giants, Marcus is also a food and wine enthusiast, frequently spotted at local farmers markets with his family. Marcus is also an accomplished home chef and is about to launch a podcast to help you elevate your home cooking called "Chef's Day Off" with Chef Matthew Dolan from 25 Lusk in San Francisco. Look for it on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or leave a comment below.

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

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That’s how Jen, a three-time solo traveler to Scotland (in just one year!), described her love affair with the country. And after hearing her story, it’s easy to understand why.

Inspired in part by Outlander—yes, the time-traveling, kilt-filled drama that’s lured many a traveler north—Jen booked her first solo trip to Scotland in March 2024. She was nervous (first big trip since the pandemic), excited (cue Edinburgh castle fantasies), and totally unprepared for how emotionally attached she’d become.

Whether you’re dreaming of misty moors and moody cliffs or just looking for your next great escape, here are the highlights from Jen’s incredible journeys—and her tips for navigating Scotland solo.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

🗺️ Her Three Solo Trips, at a Glance

Trip 1: Edinburgh + The Highlands• Stayed at the Bonham Hotel, a charming Scottish boutique stay (no cookie-cutter chain vibes here)• Explored Dean Village, Stockbridge, Princes Street Gardens, and the Royal Mile• Took a HAGGIS Adventures tour with a Highlander named Willie (yes, really)• Visited Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns — Outlander fans, this is your moment• Sipped whisky, cruised Loch Ness, and wandered the storybook town of Beauly

Trip 2: Dublin, Northern Ireland, Glasgow + Local Life in Edinburgh• Flew into Dublin, did a whirlwind Northern Ireland tour, then returned “home” to Scotland• Explored Glasgow’s cool, gritty arts scene and loved the West End near the university• Lived like a local in Edinburgh: stayed in an Apart Hotel, grocery shopped, and chased green spaces• Found magic in Leith, including dinner on an old ship and panoramic views from the new Port of Leith Distillery

Trip 3: Bruges, York + a Slowed-Down Return to Edinburgh• Planned day trips to Stirling Castle, North Berwick, and the Kelpies—but cracked her phone in York• Scrapped side adventures and leaned into familiar comfort: tea at the Signet Library, a comedy show, and yes—a tattoo• Reconnected with her favorite corners of Edinburgh and watched the sunset from Princes Street Gardens on her last night

💙 Scotland Feels Like Home—Literally

One of Jen’s most powerful realizations came late in her third trip. As she sat on a bench in Princes Street Gardens, a street musician started playing “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”

Cue full-body chills.

“It was like every part of my life converged in one moment. I was sitting in a city that feels like my future, hearing a song that connects me to my past.”

Turns out, West Virginia—where Jen grew up—and Scotland have more in common than you’d think. Both are mountainous, green, musically rooted, and full of fiercely loyal people. She later discovered that West Virginia was largely settled by Scots-Irish immigrants and even shares ancient geological roots with Scotland.

“It finally made sense why this place felt like home.”

🧳 Jen’s Solo Travel Tips for Scotland

* Start Here. Scotland is incredibly safe and welcoming—perfect for first-time solo travelers.

* Walk It. Edinburgh is easy to navigate on foot. Just bring waterproof boots.

* Book the Photo Shoot. It’s the best money she’s spent on any trip.

* Get Social Before You Go. Reset your Instagram and YouTube algorithm to all things Scotland.

* Pack Smart. Think layers, a good raincoat, and gloves—even in the Spring.

* Don’t Sleep on the Food. Try the sticky toffee pudding. And the veggie haggis.

* Lean Into the Magic. Standing stones. Rolling hills. Castles that seem straight out of Outlander. Even if you’re not chasing Jamie Fraser, you’ll feel the pull.

🌍 What’s Next for Jen?

The Isle of Skye, Orkney, Glencoe, and the NC500 are calling her name. She’s dreaming of bookstore-themed women’s tours and longer stretches in the Highlands.

“I knew from the first trip that I was meant to spend more time there. There’s more history for me to write in Scotland.”

🏴 Jen’s Scotland Recs

Places to Stay

* Bonham Hotel, Edinburgh (amazing boutique hotel)

* Apart Hotel in Edinburgh, for living like a local

* Read Jen’s guide on Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Cities + Neighborhoods

* Edinburgh — especially Dean Village, Stockbridge, Leith

* Glasgow’s West End — think artsy, gritty, and full of character

* Inverness — charming Highland river town, great base for tours

* Beauly — tiny town with major charm

Food + Drink

* Check out Jen’s “Where to Eat in Edinburgh” as well as her “Edinburgh Coffee Guide”

Tours + Experiences

* HAGGIS Adventures Highlands Tour — ask for Willie!

* Culloden Battlefield & Museum — powerful and sobering

* Clava Cairns — Outlander-esque standing stones

* Loch Ness Boat Tour

* Port of Leith Distillery — 8 stories up, with a view

* Teutcher's Landing, Leith — dinner aboard a docked ship

* Kelvingrove Art Gallery (Glasgow) — don’t miss the floating face installation

* Arthur’s Seat Hike — not a walk. A real hike. But worth it.

* Signet Library Afternoon Tea — pure elegance

Photo Tip

* Book a professional shoot your first or second day to get confident and capture the trip

Packing Must-Haves

* A warm, waterproof raincoat

* Comfortable, weatherproof boots (Chelsea or Timberland-style)

* Water-resistant tennis shoes

* Layers, gloves, and a hat—no matter the season

* Check out Jen’s guide on What to Wear & Pack in the U.K.

Meet Jen Belcher

Jen Belcher is a former teacher turned communications and marketing specialist, freelance writer, and travel enthusiast. After teaching both in the U.S. and abroad, her love for experiences abroad really took root in 2014 when she moved to Rome, Italy to teach at an international school. That two-year adventure sparked her lifelong passion for travel, including many solo endeavors.After taking a pause from international exploration during the pandemic, she reignited her wanderlust in 2024, which inspired her to get back into the world of travel through writing. This year she launched her Substack, Books on Trains, a space where she blends her two greatest loves: books and travel. Whether she’s sharing travel guides and recommendations or cozy reading recs for long train rides, Jen brings stories to life through books and travel, the perfect companions for adventures on and off the page.

Subscribe to Jen’s Substack here:

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear if you’ve ever traveled to Scotland, or if you have plans to visit in the near future!

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

How to Be a Responsible Traveler Abroad This Summer (And Always)

Travel Tips, Hacks and Apps for 2025

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8 Ways to Travel Beyond the Bucket List

➡️ Follow The Gomes Guide on Instagram here

Janice shared that Australians don't just love to travel—they're encouraged to do so. It's common to take a gap year after high school or university, thanks in part to a generous four weeks of annual leave (the standard, not the exception) and the geographic reality that Australia is far from everything. "When it's quicker to fly to Bali than to Sydney," Janice said of her hometown, Perth, "you start looking at overseas holidays a little differently." Combine that with the fact that travel can be cheaper than staying put in Australia—yes, really—and it's no wonder you'll find Aussies everywhere.

But the focus of our conversation was on just how incredibly diverse, beautiful, and underrated her own country is. If you're planning a trip to Australia (and you should be!), she had some of her standout recommendations.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

When to Go

Timing matters, and Australia’s seasons are flipped from the U.S. Summer is December through February, and winter is June through August. If you’re headed to the southern cities—like Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart (Tasmania), or Perth—Janice recommends going during the warmer months (November to March) when things are lively and the beaches are in full swing. For tropical destinations in the northern half—like Broome, Cairns, or the Daintree Rainforest—aim for winter (June to August), when the temperatures are pleasant and it’s less humid.

First-Timer Itinerary?

Start with Sydney and Melbourne. Both offer fantastic food (yes, they compete fiercely on that front), iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, and easy access to nearby nature—like the Great Ocean Drive, a must-do road trip out of Melbourne.

Wine Country & Hidden Gems

If you’re a wine lover, head west. Margaret River in Western Australia and Barossa Valley in South Australia are internationally respected but somehow still under the radar. Janice recommends driving down from Perth to Margaret River—just three hours away—for world-class wine, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed small-town vibe.

Hiking Heaven

For cool-weather hiking, Janice loves Tasmania. “It’s almost like a mini New Zealand,” she said. Think lakes, trails, and mountains—but without the crowds. There's even a famous 7-day trek (on her bucket list) that winds through some of the state’s most scenic spots.

The Road Less Traveled

Want something more remote and wild? Broome and Kununurra in the northern part of Western Australia are worth the effort. Think red rock cliffs, camel rides on the beach at sunset, Aboriginal cultural experiences, and even a pearling museum where you can learn about—and maybe buy—some of the world’s most beautiful pearls.

Coffee, Brunch & Misconceptions

Australia’s food scene is as multicultural as its population—big Italian and Greek influence in Melbourne, for example—but if there’s one thing Janice says is truly Aussie, it’s brunch. "It’s not the mimosa-and-heels kind of brunch like in the States," she told me. It’s laid-back, avocado-toast-fueled, and fueled by world-class coffee. Forget diner drip—think flat whites and lattes with perfectly poured foam art.

And a few things Janice wants Americans to know:

* No, it’s not always hot. In fact, Australia’s weather is often drier and more pleasant than a humid Texas summer.

* No, not everyone sounds like Crocodile Dundee. (Though she did admit the stereotype is alive and well.)

* Yes, Australia has incredible wildlife, but most of it won't kill you. Kangaroos, koalas, and even adorable little quokkas are far more likely sightings.

The Importance of Exploring Your Own Backyard

Lastly, we talked about the importance of exploring your own backyard—a lesson Janice learned firsthand during COVID lockdowns in Australia, when international borders were closed. She and her husband ended up honeymooning in tropical northern Queensland, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef and discovering how rich their own country really is.

Sometimes the greatest travel stories don’t require a passport—just a fresh set of eyes and an adventurous spirit.

Meet Janice Kho

Janice Kho is a pharmacist from Australia but is currently on sabbatical, living in the U.S. and exploring the world. She writes about travel, photography and how to optimize points & miles to travel more on her Substack, Traveling Lens Insider. Janice believes creating memorable travel experiences is a smart use of time and money. She’s been to 28 countries so far, but believes travel isn't a checklist exercise rather a journey of personal growth, joy and exploration. Janice believes you learn so much about yourself and the world around you when you set foot outside your comfort zone and go somewhere unfamiliar. Some of her favorite destinations so far are New Zealand, Vienna, Scotland and Santorini.

Subscribe to Janice’s Substack here:

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it, share with your friends, or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear if you’ve ever traveled to Australia, or if you have plans to visit in the near future!

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

How to Be a Responsible Traveler Abroad This Summer (And Always)

Travel Tips, Hacks and Apps for 2025

How To Be a Tourist in Your Own City

8 Ways to Travel Beyond the Bucket List

➡️ Follow The Gomes Guide on Instagram here

I recently sat down with Emmanuel Arnaud, the CEO of HomeExchange, on Mixtape Travels, and we had a lively, honest conversation about how home swapping is changing the way we travel—for the better.

Emmanuel founded the platform GuestToGuest in 2011 after a frustrating attempt to find a swap in Florence. That "why doesn’t this exist?" moment led him to launch a points-based system that eventually led him to acquire HomeExchange in 2017.

Today, HomeExchange is the largest home swapping platform in the world with over 220,000+ members in 155 countries, with more than 460,000 exchanges finalized in 2024.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Here are some highlights from our conversation:

💡 The Idea Sparked by a Rejected Trip to Florence

Back in 2010, Emmanuel and his wife tried to swap homes for a short trip to Florence. No takers. The problem? No one in Florence wanted to come to Paris (hard to believe, right?). That mismatch got Emmanuel thinking: what if you didn’t have to do a direct swap? What if you could earn points for hosting and use those later, anywhere?

A year later, GuestToGuest was born—and that points-based idea now powers 70% of exchanges on HomeExchange today.

🏡 How It Works (And Why It Works So Well)

You list your home on the platform and it’s assigned a GuestPoint value based on size, location, and amenities. You earn points by hosting and spend them when you travel. It’s flexible, budget-friendly, and perfect for people whose vacation calendars don’t line up with others.

Emmanuel put it best: “Rather than having my house sit idle, I’d rather have someone stay there, water the plants, and earn points I can use for a future trip.” Yes, please.

🌍 A Global Community Based on Trust and Hospitality

HomeExchange now has over 200,000 members in 155 countries, with over 600,000 exchanges expected this year. It's not just a platform—it's a community. People leave thank-you notes, small gifts, and personal recommendations. "Strangers become friends," Emmanuel said, and I couldn't agree more.

Hospitality is a universal language. In Emmanuel's words: "Whether you're in Japan, India, or the U.S., we all teach our kids to treat guests kindly."

Pssst. Don't miss my interview with family travel expert Rebecca Ryell, where she shares her incredible family travels around the world using HomeExchange.

💸 The Best Travel Hack You’ve Never Tried

For just $235 per year, you get unlimited exchanges. That's it. There are no nightly fees. No unexpected add-ons. No additional money is exchanged. Sounds too good to be true, right?! Think of all the places you visit in just one year! And if you're traveling with kids (and especially teens who want their own space), this is a total game-changer.

🤔 Need proof? Read about how this family saved $2,300 on a trip to Disney World using HomeExchange. And learn how this family of 5 spent an entire summer in Europe using HomeExchange. Incredible!

✨ Real People, Real Homes, Real Connection

Unlike vacation rentals, HomeExchange homes feel personal—because they are. People decorate with their own art. They leave handwritten notes. They tell you where to get the best croissant or the best tacos. It's warm, human, and authentic—three things that are often missing from modern travel.

🔐 But What About Safety and Trust?

This is where HomeExchange shines. The platform offers:

* Up to $1 million property guarantee

* A 24/7 support team

* Verified profiles

* Reviews and ratings

* Cancellation protection (they’ll even book you a hotel if needed!)

And if you’re nervous? Emmanuel says that’s normal. “Some people start out locking valuables in a closet. Others make a phone call and feel totally at ease. Everyone builds trust in their own way.”

📅 Not Just for Europe or Summer Vacations

Most U.S.-based HomeExchangers actually swap within the U.S. Emmanuel recommends starting small—like a weekend away a few hours from home—to get your feet wet. (My first swap was in Lake Tahoe and it was magic!)

❤️ His Favorite Exchange?

It’s not the fanciest one, but it stuck with him: a family from Spain stayed in his Paris apartment and left a heartfelt note saying it was their kids’ best vacation ever. Homemade jam, a thank-you book, and a warm message sealed the deal. “It made me feel like a good person,” Emmanuel said.

🌱 A More Sustainable Future for Travel

As cities push back against short-term rentals that displace locals, HomeExchange offers a powerful alternative. You're using homes that already exist. No new construction. No ghost neighborhoods. Just people making better use of what they already have—while creating incredible memories.

Meet Emmanuel Arnaud

Emmanuel Arnaud is the CEO of HomeExchange. A graduate of HEC Paris and the Harvard Kennedy School, he has combined his passion for sustainable development with his passion for traveling to revolutionize the home exchange market. Arnaud founded GuesttoGuest in 2011. In 2017, GuesttoGuest acquired U.S.-based HomeExchange, creating a world leader in the home swapping market. Solidly anchored in the sharing economy, HomeExchange is a promising alternative to traditional hospitality markets, ensuring that peer-to-peer transactions become ever-more mainstream.

Arnaud is a sharing economy insider with management, entrepreneurship, start-up and leadership expertise. He is a frequent keynote speaker and panelist at travel, technology and other events around the world. He is the recipient of Echo Touristique’s “Person of the Year 2017” trophy for innovation.

🔮 The Future of HomeExchange

Emmanuel’s vision? Growth. More members, more matches, more meaningful travel experiences. And as the middle class grows around the world, he hopes HomeExchange can help meet demand without paving paradise.

If you’ve been curious about trying HomeExchange, now’s the time to try it. It’s affordable, rewarding, and just maybe the smartest (and kindest) way to travel. I am a very happy member (if you decide to join, my referral code is: shannon-6f3ec) and have thoroughly enjoyed my experiences so far staying in Lake Tahoe, Mexico City, and later this year, in the Canadian Rockies.

So, move over Airbnb and VRBO - it’s all the sharing economy and exchanging homes to travel around the U.S. and world. And if you still aren’t convinced, check out this CNN Travel article on swapping homes with strangers instead of using Airbnb or hotels.

Happy exchanging and travels! 🏠🌎

If you enjoyed this post, please give it a quick ❤️to help others discover it or please leave a comment below. I’d love to hear if you’ve ever swapped homes to travel, or would consider doing so in the near future!

Also, if have any fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward along to them. 🌐 Link to The Gomes Guide Homepage to find all past posts, and link to all recent podcast interviews here. 🎧

With much gratitude,

The Gomes Guide is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Popular Gomes Guide Posts:

12 Essential Tips for International Trips

Travel Tips, Hacks and Apps for 2025

How To Be a Tourist in Your Own City

8 Ways to Travel Beyond the Bucket List

➡️ Follow The Gomes Guide on Instagram here

Jamie’s a creative marketing and brand leader who splits her time between Palm Springs, Big Bear and Mexico. After nearly two decades in L.A., Jamie and her husband James were ready for a softer pace of life—and parking. “You can’t drive 15 miles in 15 minutes in L.A.,” she said. “But here? It’s easy. It’s calm. And the second the sun hits the mountains, everything just feels more peaceful.”

That magic is part of what draws people to Palm Springs and the larger Coachella Valley. Yes, the design and history are iconic, but it’s also a place where young creatives are putting down roots, especially since the pandemic. Jamie knows where to find the best views, the quirkiest architecture, the perfect sushi roll, and even where to stargaze if you're hoping to spot the Milky Way or, on a rare and lucky night, the Northern Lights.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

Where to Stay

Del Marcos Hotel is a mid-century dream, adults-only, and originally designed by architect William Cody. Each suite has its own vibe, so no two visits feel quite the same.

Want to be near the action? The Rowan offers a rooftop pool, mountain views, and bonus points: you might spot bighorn sheep on the hill behind it.

What to Do

Start your day with a hike—Jamie has 7 or 8 trailheads within walking distance from her house. Want to cool off later? Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mount San Jacinto for 30–40° cooler temps and incredible views.

Architecture fans shouldn’t miss Modernism Week, which lets you peek inside historic homes (including Elvis Presley’s honeymoon hideaway, complete with a sunken party pad).

Love quirky photo ops? Swing by the "Robot House" (aka RoboLights), decked out with hand-built sculptures and neon lawn ornaments.

And if you want to get spiritual—or just really, really relaxed—book a sound bath at the Integratron. Yes, it’s in a dome with next-level acoustics. Yes, it’s worth it.

One of Jamie’s favorite nighttime escapes? Stargazing in Joshua Tree. Just an hour from Palm Springs, it’s pitch black and perfect for spotting constellations—or even the Milky Way. (Follow the park’s Instagram for their Milky Way calendar.) She once even saw the Northern Lights there (yes, really!).

Local Events Worth Planning Around

* Modernism Week – A must for architecture lovers

* Palm Springs Vintage Market – First Sunday of the month, Oct–Apr

* Desert X – A valley-wide art installation series

* Sunnylands Film Series – Free outdoor movies in spring and fall (bring your picnic blanket and a bottle of rosé)

🎶 Live Music + Festivals

Jamie mentioned the Acrisure Arena and the surprisingly intimate concerts there.

And of course, festival season is huge in the Coachella Valley. While Jamie proudly wears her "never been to Coachella" badge, she’s a fan of Stagecoach, which she says is beautifully laid out and surprisingly chill (even for those of us who prefer seats and space to stand). It’s not just the music—there’s a whole vibe of open skies, cowboy boots, and desert sunsets.

Want something more low-key? Check out the Sunnylands Film Series, a spring/fall tradition in Rancho Mirage. Locals show up with picnic blankets, wine, and lawn chairs to watch classic films under the stars—Jamie finally saw The Goonies there for the first time.

Bonus Tip for Music Lovers:Palm Springs' Acrisure Arena is home to the AHL farm team of the Seattle Kraken—but also hosts big-name acts like Lizzo in a venue that seats just 10–15k. Jamie saw her from the floor and “could feel her flute magic.” (Yes, that’s a direct quote!)

Eat + Drink Like Jamie

* PaulBar – A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it strip mall gem. It opens at 4 p.m., and there’s always a line. The food? Shockingly good. The cocktails? Even better.

* Farm – Go for brunch and get the Bloody Mary. Just trust us.

* Ponzu – After trying 15 different spots, this is Jamie’s pick for sushi. Creative rolls and solid classics.

* Tac/Quila – Elevated Mexican that still feels local.

* Also worth mentioning: Las Casuelas for big margaritas and patio vibes.

Jamie’s Perfect Palm Springs Day

Wake up. Hike one of the local trails. Eat sushi at Ponzu. Nap on a pool float (not optional). And cap it all off with a piano set by local legend Mikael Healey at Melvyn’s—martini in hand, naturally.

“Wrap up your night at Melvyn’s, where local legend Mikael Healey has been playing piano for nearly 20 years. He’s so beloved, he has his own star on Palm Springs’ Walk of Fame. Order a gin martini and soak it in.”

Finally, want to lean into the heat? Jamie’s cure is simple: float in a pool, cocktail in hand, with mountain views in every direction. Bonus points for a mid-century lounger and a soundtrack of vintage soul.

Meet Jamie Haley

Jamie Haley is a travel enthusiast and content creator who shares vibrant, detail-rich adventures through her Instagram platform, @travelthisweekend. Known for her thoughtfully curated, color-coded itineraries, Jamie brings a passion for immersive experiences to every corner of the world she visits.

With a deep love for the dramatic landscapes of Iceland and the coastal beauty of Croatia, Jamie has explored every continent except Antarctica. Often taking to the sea by private catamaran charter, she embraces a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path approach to global exploration. When she’s not sailing or sightseeing, you’ll likely find her discovering rooftop bars, sipping champagne, and indulging in great food wherever she goes.

In addition to her travel content, Jamie is the founder of Haley Creative, a marketing and communications consultancy, and the owner of Dark Side of the Moonridge Retreat — a moody mid-century modern cabin available for rent in Big Bear Lake, California. Her growing real estate portfolio, both international and domestic, reflects her passion for both travel and design and blends her love of exploration with entrepreneurship.

Thank you Jamie for sharing your local tips and expertise about Palm Springs!

She went in June, just in time for the midnight sun, which meant she was walking the streets at 10:30 p.m. wondering what to do next. Oslo felt quiet and a little buttoned-up (locals were off chasing sun in Greece or Mallorca), but Dana made the most of the stillness—and found some gems along the way.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Dana’s Oslo faves:

* A pop-up speakeasy named Bar Amour serving a Portuguese-Norwegian tasting menu (possibly reindeer heart!)

* Oslo Velo, a punky natural wine bar with a 90s SF messenger bike vibe

* Bobbo Collective, a cozy corner spot for wood-fired pizza and salad

* Tim Wendelboe, a must-visit café from one of the world’s top coffee roasters

* Floating fjord saunas near the city waterfront (jump in, warm up, repeat)

* The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History—basically Norway’s version of Colonial Williamsburg, in the best way

* Vigeland Sculpture Park, a massive and emotionally powerful open-air art space

* HIMKOK, a speakeasy where Dana tasted aquavit

She’s also a big fan of using Google Maps like a visual travel diary—pinning places as she goes, which she now shares with friends heading to the same spot (such a great tip!).

The Lofoten IslandsDana and her husband flew north (way north—above the Arctic Circle!), landing in one of the most stunning places she’s ever seen. She described it as “constant gasping” and even dared to say it topped New Zealand’s North Island in terms of beauty.

They stayed in charming red rorbu cabins—refurbished fisherman’s huts right on the water—and spent their days hiking, swimming in glacial turquoise water, exploring tiny towns, and finding art in unexpected places (like a working glassblowing studio that gave off major Sea Ranch vibes).

Dana’s Lofoten recommendations:

* Stay in luxury cabins (includes a decadent breakfast) in a historic fishing village at Nusfjord

* A sauna with ocean views followed by a cold plunge in the sea

* A vegan pizza dinner on a regenerative farm run by a young local family at Polarhage

* A vibrant rock climbing and arts scene in Henningsvaer, and another seaside sauna at a cafe/art space next to a vintage store

* Wild strawberries, coastal hikes, and endless golden hour light

* Climb 2,000 stairs to a breathtaking view

Practical tips from Dana:

* Pack a rain jacket (seriously)

* Three shoes max: Blundstones, trail runners, and sandals

* Use Google Maps to track everything you love

* Oslo’s public transit is clean, efficient, and on time (never more than a 5-minute wait!)

* Most Norwegians speak perfect English—no language barrier here

Her trip’s unofficial soundtrack?“Norwegian Wood” by the Beatles, the Grateful Dead, and Vampire Weekend. It’s road trip music for one of the most surreal drives on the planet.

Meet Dana Smith

As the founder and president of Dadascope Communications, Dana has evangelized new trends, introduced national brands, trained executives for national appearances and developed communications strategies and messaging platforms for 25 years. Over the past decade, she and her agency have focused on amplifying the impact of brands and innovators working to make the world a better place through climate-positive solutions. Recent clients include Sightglass Coffee, Lotus Foods, Clover Sonoma Dairy, Numi Organic Tea and Corto Olive Co.

Dana lives in Berkeley, CA with her husband and their blind Chihuahua. A mother of two college-aged kids, she strives to live a life that balances meaningful work, artmaking, community engagement, nature and gathering around homecooked meals with friends and family. Originally from New York City's Flatiron District, Dana hopped in a U-Haul and headed to California four days after graduating from Barnard College. She continues to cultivate a life that balances the grit, dynamism and energy of her hometown with the natural beauty, vibrant flavors and carefree vibe of her chosen home.

Thank you Dana for sharing your recommendations from this magical summertime trip to Norway!

If you enjoyed this interview, please leave a quick ♥️ or leave a comment below.

The Gomes Guide is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Marcia has been to Greece five times, and she’s not done yet. Her stories are funny, full of feeling, and packed with helpful tips for anyone craving a slower, richer travel experience. If Greece is on your list—or if you're just into food, history, and beautiful storytelling—you’ll want to give this one a listen.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Here are some highlights from our chat:

💥 An Earthquake, a Moussaka, and a Street Dinner

Marcia’s first-ever Greek meal was interrupted by a massive earthquake in Athens. But instead of panic, what followed was unexpected magic: waiters pulling tables into the street, salvaging food from the kitchen, and sharing wine with strangers. It’s a moment she says changed her outlook on travel—and life.

☀️Sifnos: The Secret Island You (Maybe) Shouldn’t Know About

After Athens, she escaped to the quiet island of Sifnos, where she met scooter-riding Frenchmen, stumbled on the best taverna, and soaked up the kind of peace you only find in places with two boats a week. Sifnos stayed with her—and yes, she’s seriously considering retiring there.

Marcia also discusses later visits to the islands of Naxos, Corfu, and Thessaloniki, describing Corfu’s Venetian influence and Thessaloniki’s underrated vibrancy, architecture, and food scene.

Pro tip from Marcia: If an island has an airport, it’s probably not the place to go if you're looking to truly unwind.

🍽️ The Food of Greece, According to Marcia

Marcia’s stories about Greece are full of sun-soaked beaches and ferry mishaps—but food is at the heart of almost every moment. Here are some of her most memorable takeaways:

🧀 Feta Fanaticism

* Marcia joined a feta-focused media trip where she learned about the artistry behind this iconic cheese and visited co-ops, small dairies, and artisan producers. You read all about it here!

* She’s deeply committed to the real deal: “If it’s made with cow’s milk, it is NOT feta. Don’t even look at it.”

* Feta, to her, is a fridge staple and a source of joy—she calls it “the thing I’m always cooking with.”

🍞 Rustic Comforts & Grandma Food

* Greece isn’t just about seaside dining—it’s about comfort food, often made early in the day and served in generous, no-fuss portions later.

* Her favorites include:

* Stuffed tomatoes with rice

* Baked casseroles portioned out in wedges

* Bright-orange eggs from chickens fed marigolds, served with a chunk of bread and feta

* Late-night honey balls (“loukoumades“) from a bakery in Sifnos that “still live rent-free” in her memory

🌾 Ancient Grains: Meet Trahana

* Trahana is an ancient Greek grain preserved by mixing with yogurt and drying it—then later rehydrated into a tangy porridge.

* Marcia loved shopping for grains like this at home goods shops near Athens’ Central Market and found the preservation traditions fascinating.

* “It’s like salumi or canned tomatoes in Italy—practical but totally delicious.”

🥗 Cretan Food Is a Whole Thing

* She raves about the food of Crete, especially dakos—a barley rusk salad rehydrated with tomatoes, olive oil, feta, and oregano.

* “You eat it chilled, on the beach, and think—okay, I could live here.”

🥐 Thessaloniki: Bakery Heaven

* The baked goods in Thessaloniki left her speechless:

* Bougatsa (custard-filled phyllo)

* Custard-stuffed triangle cones

* Spanakopita unlike anywhere else

* She said the region’s baking scene was “kind of mind-blowing” and totally unique to northern Greece.

* She highly recommends Smaragda’s food tours and cooking classes in Thessaloniki.

🥝 Greek Kiwis and Cherries

* Did you know Greece is also known for their kiwis and cherries? This was news to me! To learn more, check out Marcia’s post on kiwis and cherries in Greece.

☕ Coffee, the Greek Way

* Marcia fell hard for the country’s intense coffee culture:

* Greek coffee: unfiltered and muddy if you don’t let it settle (“It’ll put hair on your chest.”)

* Frappe: A surprisingly delicious beach drink made from Nescafé, sugar, and ice

* Freddo Espresso: Her favorite—iced espresso with a touch of milk foam, available everywhere

🍷 Wine Bars & Local Spirits

* In Athens, she recommends hitting wine bars like Materia Prima and Heteroclito.

* Greece’s natural wine scene impressed her, even as someone who’s usually skeptical.

* Favorite spirits:

* Mastiha – A liqueur made from ancient tree resin (and the world’s original chewing gum!)

* Tsipouro – A grappa-like spirit best enjoyed with salty bites at a seaside tsipouradiko

❤️ Greek Pride and Generosity

* One of Marcia’s biggest takeaways? The pride Greeks take in their local foods—and how open they are when you show interest.

* “If you show the slightest bit of curiosity, the door flies open. They want to show you how it's made, how it's eaten, where it comes from.”

* Her tip: Learn a few key phrases, ask questions, and be curious. It’s the fastest way to make friends—and to get invited behind the counter for a taste of something special!

🏛 Athens Isn’t Just for History Buffs (But Also, It’s Great for History Buffs)

Marcia’s love for Athens has only grown over the years. She talks about her favorite food markets, wine bars, music-filled tavernas, and lesser-known temples. Her best advice? Visit in spring or fall to avoid the brutal summer heat, go on a food tour with Culinary Backstreets, and always hire a guide at the Acropolis if you can (book with Get Your Guide).

Want to read Marcia’s detailed guide to Athens? (Trust me, the answer is yes!) She includes the names and links to many of the places we talked about! Become a paid subscriber of tablehopper. You will be able to access her fabulous Athens recommendations, plus all the latest SF Bay Area restaurant and bar news, events, culture tips, travel guides, and more. Marcia is offering a special 25% discount for an annual subscription to tablehopper for Gomes Guide readers (Thank you, Marcia! 🙏). To take advantage of this special offer, click here.

Meet Marcia

Marcia Gagliardi is a San Francisco–based culinary personality and restaurant columnist, well-known for her groundbreaking, 19-year-old tablehopper newsletter, an established insider resource for the latest SF Bay Area restaurant and bar news, events, international travel stories, and more. Her column (and Instagram feed: @tablehopper) are avidly read by a loyal following of both food-obsessed consumers and the food and beverage industry. Marcia is a published author, freelance writer (she has been writing about the Bay Area food scene since 2003), event producer and host, emcee, content creator, and has appeared on numerous television and radio shows (including her own pandemic podcast, On the Fly). Marcia is a proud San Franciscan, 30 years and counting.

🇬🇷 Why You Should Travel to Greece

Why Greece? Because it's not just about the ancient ruins or the turquoise water (though, yes, they're amazing!). As Marcia shares, it's the kindness of strangers who pull tables into the street after an earthquake and share their wine with you. It's the taste of authentic feta that makes all other cheese pale in comparison. It's the tiny island taverna you find by accident, the beach you hike to escape the crowds, and the shopkeeper who invites you back in the morning to teach you how he makes breakfast. As Marcia describes, Greece has a way of slowing you down and pulling you in—with its food, its history, its chaos, and its calm.

If you're looking to reset, reconnect, or simply eat exceptionally well, this is your place. As Marcia says, "It's where the soul gets quenched."

Thank you Marcia for sharing your love and awesome recommendations for Greece!

If you enjoyed this interview, please leave a quick ❤️ or share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you have fellow travel-loving friends who would enjoy subscribing to The Gomes Guide, please forward this to them. 🙏

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Here are a few highlights from our chat:

💫The Spirit of Marin

Adam describes Marin as “Shangri-La”—a place people never want to leave. It’s not just the stunning views or quiet beaches; it’s the feeling of being connected to nature and community. Locals are out hiking, biking, and breathing it all in daily. As Adam says, “You can’t live anywhere else once you’ve been here.”

🚴‍♀️The Great Outdoors, Amplified

84% of Marin is protected open space. Let that sink in.

From solo hikes in the Marin Headlands to epic views atop Mount Tamalpais, outdoor lovers are spoiled here. If you’re into mountain biking, Fairfax is basically a shrine—it’s home to the Mountain Biking Hall of Fame and a hotbed of wellness culture.

🍽 Foodie Favorites

Marin doesn’t shout about its food scene—it doesn’t have to. Local go-tos include:

* Fish (Sausalito): Legendary for a reason

* Buckeye Roadhouse (Mill Valley): Truffle fries, martinis, mahogany—enough said

* Sam’s Anchor Cafe (Tiburon): Deck dining with a side of mai tais

* Ryan Scott Boutique Food Trailer Cafe (San Anselmo): Open Friday - Sunday from 8am-2pm, celebrity chef Ryan Scott offers incredible breakfast & lunch options bursting with local ingredients

* Comforts (San Anselmo): The Chinese chicken salad is an absolute must

* Village Sake (Fairfax): Excellent sushi, featured in ‘25 Michelin guide

* Plus: San Rafael’s farmers market, and plenty of tiny neighborhood gems

🎶 Music, Art & Marin’s Creative Roots

Marin is packed with quiet legends. Otis Redding wrote “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” here. The Grateful Dead rehearsed in a seaplane hangar. Alan Watts and other counterculture icons built Druid Heights near Muir Woods. And these days, everyone from tech founders to former rockstars still quietly call it home.

🐟The Perfect Day in Marin, According to Adam

Adam’s ideal itinerary sounds like the dream day you didn’t know you needed:

* Start with Equator Coffee and a surf-shop browse at Proof Lab in Tam Junction

* Hike Tennessee Valley to a hidden beach

* Cruise up Hwy 1, stopping at Stinson Beach or the Marshall Store for oysters

* Watch the elk roam Point Reyes

* Grab dinner at Fish in Sausalito or the Guesthouse in Kentfield

* End with a legal (!) beach bonfire at Muir Beach under the stars

✨ Magical Marin

Marin has layers. It's both fancy and laid-back, rugged and refined. It’s a short drive from San Francisco, but feels worlds away. And thanks to dedicated locals (shoutout to the folks who stopped the Marinchello development in the '70s), it’s stayed stunningly preserved.

Meet Adam Cohen

Adam Cohen, widely recognized as "The Marin Dad," is a Marin-based content creator and community advocate who has become a local fixture through his humorous and insightful social media presence. Since moving to Marin County in 2019, Adam has built a loyal following on Instagram @marin.dad by capturing the quirks and charm of life in Marin—from early morning bike rides up Mt. Tam to the everyday adventures of parenting. Through his platform, The Marin Dad, he promotes local businesses and events and organizes corporate retreats via his company, Marin Offsite. Beyond his digital persona, Adam is deeply involved in the community, serving on the board of the Mill Valley Chamber of Commerce and championing initiatives that enhance local life.Whether spotlighting hidden gems or encouraging newcomers to embrace the "Marin Magic," Adam embodies a spirit of connection, curiosity, and civic pride.

Whether it’s biking the hills, kayaking the bay, hiking in silence, or spotting eagles in West Marin, Adam calls Marin’s outdoor lifestyle an “adventure industry that no one’s branded yet.” And honestly, maybe that’s a good thing.

So pack your hiking shoes, bring a few snacks, and do as Adam does: don’t just look at the views—immerse yourself in them.

Do you have a favorite spot in Marin? Let me know in the comments!

The Gomes Guide is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Suzanne is a passionate family travel blogger and a dedicated cruise enthusiast. She took her first cruise 33 years ago on a Celebrity ship to Bermuda for a family reunion and has been hooked ever since. Today, she regularly cruises with her two daughters and shares advice, reviews, and itinerary breakdowns on her blog, SeaLyonsCruising.com. In this podcast interview, Suzanne explained why cruising is an excellent option for families, especially for single parents like herself.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Below are some highlights from our conversation:

Why Cruising Works

* Unpack once, see multiple places. Cruises are floating resorts that take you from one destination to another—without the hassle of repacking, booking transfers, or navigating airports.

* Kids' clubs = parental bliss. Most ships have well-staffed, engaging kids’ clubs open multiple times a day, giving parents a break to enjoy the spa, live music, or a proper dinner.

* All-inclusive appeal. Accommodations, meals, entertainment—even Broadway-style shows—are bundled into the fare. As Suzanne puts it, "It’s cost-effective and you don’t have to cook or clean!"

Cruise Lines She Loves (and Why)

* Royal Caribbean: The gold standard for families. Think ice rinks, water parks, and over-the-top entertainment. Higher price point but worth it.

* Norwegian (NCL): Flexible dining and family-friendly features like ropes courses and water slides. Their new ship even has a roller coaster!

* MSC: Europe-based but newer to the U.S. Great value for the money—ideal for families looking to cruise on a budget.

* Carnival: Another solid family option, especially for fun-focused, shorter trips.

* Celebrity & Holland America: A bit more upscale, less kid-focused, but great if you're after a quieter experience with older kids or adults.

Onboard & Onshore Tips

Suzanne shared a wealth of smart tips—like not hitting the buffet on Day 1 (it's a madhouse) and always bringing your own motion sickness meds (trust her, you don't want to be hunting for medicine on board).

She also recommends checking out a cruise line’s private islands, many of which offer beaches, food, and water parks exclusively for passengers. Her kids love the magic of these stops—and she loves the ease.

How to Choose a Cruise

Her advice? Match the cruise to your travel style, budget, and who you’re going with. Expedition cruises (like NatGeo’s) might suit adventurous adults, while river cruises are perfect for couples or empty-nesters. If it’s your first time, start small with a 4–5 day trip out of a nearby port like Miami or New York.

And most importantly? Get travel insurance. A member of Suzanne’s travel group was once hospitalized just before departure and couldn’t make the trip — and she now swears by travel insurance and uses Allianz.

Favorite Cruise Memory

One of Suzanne’s most memorable moments? Watching the sunrise from the balcony of her ship as it sailed into Bermuda—with her 5-year-old daughter curled beside her on a lounger. "It was pure magic," she said. "That’s when I knew—this is how we’re going to travel."

Meet Suzanne Lyons

Suzanne Lyons has spent the last 25 years as a communications and media relations specialists, crafting strategies and launching creative campaigns for some of the biggest brands in the world, including Netflix, Frito Lay, P&G, Best Buy and Westinghouse. She has brought her personal passion for family travel to life and is the founder of SeaLyonsCruising.com, a go-to resource for families and solo parents navigating the world of cruising. A passionate traveler and single mom based in Northern New Jersey, Suzanne launched the blog to share her personal experiences and expert tips on making cruise vacations seamless, fun, and stress-free — especially with kids in tow no matter what their ages. Through firsthand reviews, practical advice, and family-friendly insights, she helps readers discover how cruising can be an accessible and rewarding way to explore the world. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned cruiser, Suzanne’s mission is to inspire confidence, adventure, and to create lifelong family memories at sea.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Caribbean escape, a river cruise through Europe, or a week of onboard relaxation with your kids entertained and your drinks included, cruising just might be your next favorite way to travel.

Thank you Suzanne for sharing your expert tips and insights on cruising to travel!

I sat down with globetrotter Marissa Gomes (no relation, but we’ve worked together twice!) to chat about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil—her husband’s homeland and a place that feels like a second home. With over 40 countries under her belt, Marissa shares personal insights into what makes Rio so magnetic, from the iconic beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana to hidden gems like the car-free island of Ilha Grande.

We dive into everything from the best times to visit, local food and drinks (hello, passionfruit caipirinhas!), navigating Rio with kids, and her unforgettable experience at the World Cup. Marissa paints a picture of a city buzzing with energy, warmth, and a deep love of life — and gives you all the tips you need to make the most of your own Brazilian adventure. And let me tell you - she makes a strong case for booking a flight now.

Here are some highlights and top travel tips from our chat:

🏖️ Where to Stay & Explore

* Marissa prefers Ipanema, close to both the beach and the upscale neighborhood of Leblon, ideal for walking, juice stands, and dining.

* Recommends Airbnb over hotels, especially for families.

* Hidden Gem: Ilha Grande, a car-free island a couple of hours from Rio, offers a quiet, nature-forward beach experience.

* Other notable areas include Copacabana, Praia Vermelha (Red Beach), and the Botanical Garden.

🍹 Food & Drink Musts

* Drinks: Caipirinhas (especially passionfruit), fresh tropical juices, coconut water.

* Dishes: Steak with rice and beans, farofa (toasted yucca), feijoada (meat and black bean stew), and daily favorite pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread - look for Brazi Bites in the frozen section of U.S. grocery stores!)

* Recommends trying unfamiliar fruits in juice form — many kiosks offer options like cashew fruit, lychee, mango, etc.

🎶 Nightlife

* Rio has a rich and varied nightlife with open-air bars and casual sidewalk gatherings.

* The Lapa neighborhood is the hotspot for clubs, live music, and vibrant crowds.

* Brazilians are social and affectionate — expect double cheek kisses and long goodbyes!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Traveling with Kids

* Very kid-friendly culture: accommodating Airbnbs, beaches with amenities, playgrounds (like the one between Leblon and Ipanema), and family-oriented services.

* Locals are welcoming and offer priority to families and elders in public settings.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

* Avoid the peak heat of December–February (Rio’s summer, typically 90-100 degree Fahernheit and humid!)

* Ideal travel months: March–May or September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds.

🗺️ Top Things to Do

* Relax on Ipanema Beach, sip coconut water, and people-watch.

* Visit Sugarloaf Mountain at sunset for panoramic views.

* Explore Christ the Redeemer, Botanical Garden, and Parque Lage.

* Experience local shopping malls and pick up Havaianas flip-flops as souvenirs.

* Watching a soccer match at Maracanã Stadium

⚠️ Tips for Tourists

* Don’t assume Portuguese is Spanish — learn a few key Portuguese phrases.

* Stay alert in big crowds, watch your belongings, and avoid wandering into favelas unless on a guided tour.

* Most restaurants have menus in both Portuguese and English.

Meet Marissa Gomes

Marissa Gomes recently visited her 40th country - seeing the world was always her goal from a young age and she is definitely making good progress! When she is not planning her next trip, she is working hard as a Marketing Director in the consumer packaged goods industry. Marissa lives in the Bay Area with her twin daughters and her husband who is originally from Brazil. They all enjoy finding anything Brazilian they can in the area - from their favorite snack foods to capoeira or jiu jitsu. Marissa is conversant in Portuguese, as she wanted to be able to explore independently and really get a feel for Brazilian culture.

Muito obrigada Marissa for sharing all of your top tips and recommendations for visiting vibrant Rio de Janeiro!

The Gomes Guide is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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Nicole, a ceramic artist, chose Portugal after visiting in 2019 and connecting with local artist Mariana Sampaio through a podcast. This connection led to a pivotal visit during the pandemic, solidifying their plans. They now live in a quiet village of 450 residents, where Nicole is developing a guesthouse and community art studio.

She discusses the charming and frustrating cultural adjustments, including the slower pace of life, language barriers, and infrastructure quirks. Despite initial concerns about local attitudes toward immigrants, Nicole describes a welcoming village with a growing immigrant community from the UK, Canada, South Africa, and Belgium.

Food and lifestyle also feature prominently—while fresh produce is abundant, variety is limited due to clay-heavy soil. She raves about local pastries, wine, and café culture. Nicole also explains the challenges of navigating the visa process (D7 visa), setting up utilities, and managing repairs in a system that values improvisation over precision.

Nicole’s advice to those considering a move abroad is to visit for an extended period beyond the “honeymoon” phase, connect with locals, and prepare for a different pace of life. Her artist residency program is already hosting its first guests, and she looks forward to expanding it in collaboration with local creatives.

Resources Mentioned:

* Portugal The Simple Life Podcast

* DeepL (app for translating from English to continental Portuguese)

* Facebook Group: Americans & Friends PT (search for expat resources)

If you’ve ever dreamed of living abroad, starting a creative retreat, or embracing a slower lifestyle, this episode is packed with real talk and inspiration!

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Nicole Curcio

Nicole Curcio is a ceramic artist and the founder of Well Traveled Wares, her line of handmade pottery inspired by a love of travel and global design. Though she always dreamed of a creative life, Nicole spent decades building a career in retail management, marketing, and public relations within the design and decor world. That winding path turned out to be the perfect foundation for launching her own business—and ultimately, for becoming a full-time working artist.

Her work is deeply influenced by wanderlust, and she’s long held a vision of living abroad and creating a space where creativity and community could thrive. In September 2024, after years of dreaming and planning, Nicole and her husband Nick—along with their two Australian Shepherds—relocated from Portland, OR to a sunny yellow house on a hilltop in rural Portugal. There, they’re building a studio, farm, and guest house designed to host artist residencies, retreats, and workshops starting in 2025. Since arriving, they've been working nonstop to bring that vision to life—and now, it’s all beginning to take shape.

Follow Nicole:🔗 Instagram: @well.traveled.wares✍️ Substack: Nicole Curcio

Thank you Nicole for sharing your inspiring journey about moving and living abroad in Portugal!

I sat down with global nutrition expert, author, and fellow travel enthusiast Dr. Sylvia Klinger, who fell in love with Japan during what was supposed to be a quick layover. What followed was a deep, ongoing love affair with the country that has brought her back five times—and counting.

In our conversation, Sylvia shares the real reasons Japan leaves such a lasting impression. It's not just the food (though it’s amazing), or the high-speed trains (also amazing), or even the spotless public bathrooms (seriously amazing). It’s the culture of respect, calm, and intentionality that makes Japan feel like a breath of fresh air.

We talk about:

* The etiquette that every traveler should know before visiting

* Favorite destinations beyond Tokyo, including Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Yokohama

* How Japanese society manages to feel both futuristic and deeply rooted in tradition

* What to pack, how to ride the bullet trains, and where to find those dreamy bento box meals

* Her experience attending a Kabuki theater, taking a calligraphy class, and (almost) eating fish on a stick at a festival

Sylvia’s passion for Japan is infectious. Whether you're actively planning a trip or just gathering inspiration, this episode will leave you seeing Japan (and travel in general) through a new lens.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Sylvia Klinger

Dr. Sylvia Klinger is an award-winning global nutrition expert, author, speaker, and the powerhouse behind Hispanic & Multicultural Nutrition Communications. With over four decades of experience, Sylvia has inspired communities around the world through her culturally rich approach to health and wellness. A bilingual registered dietitian, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies and contributed to countless publications.

Born in Puerto Rico to adventurous missionary parents, Sylvia developed a deep love for travel and culture early in life. She lived in Mexico for ten years before meeting her Irish-descendant husband in California. Today, they reside in Chicago near their two adult children. Her passion for food, culture, and global connection has taken her around the world, and with her insatiable curiosity and zest for discovery, there are still many more places she dreams of exploring.

Enjoy this interview and post? Leave a quick ♥️ or comment below. And please forward this to a friend who’s always dreamed of visiting Japan! 🇯🇵

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Leigh Oshirak Schuberth to discuss her recent unforgettable 14-day journey to Antarctica on the Atlas Voyages World Traveller Ship from Ushuaia, Argentina, with her husband and a group of close friends. From navigating the infamous Drake Passage to witnessing breathtaking glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife landscapes, Leigh shares her firsthand experiences of the mesmerizing White Continent.

We discuss the logistics of traveling to such a remote destination, the best time of year to visit, and the transformative impact of seeing Antarctica’s pristine beauty up close. Leigh also offers valuable insights into choosing the proper expedition and the importance of having a flexible and adventurous mindset when traveling to Antarctica.

If Antarctica is on your bucket list—or if you love hearing about extraordinary travel experiences—you won’t want to miss this conversation!

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Leigh Oshirak Schuberth

Leigh Oshirak Schuberth is an American citizen who spent her formative childhood years living in Madrid, Spain with her family which seeded her love of travel. A native of nowhere (her father was in the military) Leigh lived in six states before graduating high school in Colorado. She resides in Marin County with her husband and son (when on breaks from college) and has a home in Sonoma Wine Country where she and her husband make Zinfandel and a Tuscan Blend of Olive Oil. Leigh loves cooking, hiking, and spending time with her family and little dachshund Frankie. Her love of hiking has taken her all over the world including the summit of Mt. Whitney many times, Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Everest Base Camp in the Khumbu Valley of Nepal, The Tour du Mont Blanc in Italy, France & Switzerland, and numerous weeklong hikes in the John Muir & Ansel Adams Wilderness in the Eastern Sierra of California. In July, Leigh will make a solo attempt of the famous John Muir Trail, beginning at Mt. Whitney and terminating in Yosemite National Park. She credits travel with being her best teacher. She has visited over 50 countries on all 7 Continents, speaks fluent Spanish and is a proud life long learner. Leigh is happily retired from a 30+ year career as a Marketing Executive.

Key Facts about Antarctica

Geography & Climate

* Size: It’s the fifth-largest continent, covering about 5.5 million square miles (14 million square km)—larger than Europe or Australia

* Ice Coverage: 98% of Antarctica is covered by ice, which holds about 70% of the world's fresh water

* Climate: It’s the coldest, driest, and windiest place on Earth. The lowest recorded temperature was −128.6°F (−89.2°C) at Vostok Station

* Seasons: Antarctica has six months of daylight in summer (November–March) and six months of darkness in winter (April–October)

Wildlife

Despite its harsh conditions, Antarctica is home to unique wildlife:

* Penguins: Emperor, Adélie, Gentoo, King, Macaroni and Chinstrap penguins thrive here

* Whales: Minke (small, gentle and curious whales), blue, humpback, and orcas migrate to Antarctic waters for feeding.

* Seals: Crabeater, Weddell, leopard, fur and elephant seals inhabit the ice and waters

* Birds: Albatrosses, Skuas (birds that steal the penguin eggs, as pictured below) and petrels soar over the Southern Ocean

Human Presence

* There are no permanent human residents, but about 1,000–5,000 people live in research stations year-round

* The Antarctic Treaty (1959)ensures that the continent is used only for peaceful and scientific purposes—no military activity or resource exploitation is allowed

Travel & Exploration

* Visitors typically travel via expedition cruises from South America, crossing the Drake Passage or flying to Antarctic bases

* Activities include wildlife spotting, kayaking, hiking, ice camping, and polar plunges

Why Antarctica Matters

* Climate Change Indicator: Ice loss here affects global sea levels

* Scientific Research Hub: Scientists study everything from space-like conditions to ancient ice cores that reveal Earth's climate history

Thank you Leigh for sharing your inspiring journey to Antarctica!

If you enjoyed this interview, please leave a ♥️ or comment below, and please share with your travel-loving friends. Thank you!

Jeff’s obsession started in 2010, during what he calls his “30-hour mistake.” He and his wife flew from Los Angeles to South Africa the long way—through Tokyo and Singapore—for the World Cup. It cost 80,000 points and a lot of marital patience. “At the time, I thought I’d scored a great deal,” he laughed. “In hindsight, I could’ve flown business class for the same amount of points.” Lesson learned.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Highlights from our conversation include:

Earning Points the Smart Way

Jeff’s secret isn’t flying all the time—it’s credit cards. His go-tos?

* Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve for travel and dining (up to 5x points).

* Chase Freedom or Freedom Unlimited for everyday spending.

* Amex Platinum and Gold for their powerful transfer partners.

He’s not a fan of hoarding points either. “They lose value over time, just like currency. Don’t wait for the dream trip—use them for the trips you actually want to take.”

For Beginners: Start Small

If you’re new to the points game, Jeff suggests starting with a no-annual-fee card like the Chase Freedom. It offers rotating bonus categories (like grocery stores) that make it easy to rack up points without changing your spending habits. “You can earn tens of thousands of points a year just by shopping for what you already buy.”

Redemption Tips from a Pro

* Don’t be afraid to mix and match: You can use British Airways Avios (a Chase partner) to book flights on American Airlines, often at a better rate than booking directly.

* Be flexible: “If you’re not tied to one destination or date, you’ll get the best redemptions,” Jeff says. His family once flew business class from Austin to Amsterdam for 50,000 miles each.

* Avoid point hoarding: Airlines devalue points all the time. Book the trip. Take the trip. Repeat.

Tools of the Trade

Jeff swears by a few favorite resources:

* The Points Guy — for valuing miles and deciding when to pay cash vs. use points.

* Google Flights — to compare routes and fares.

* Points.me — a new favorite for searching award availability across programs.

* FlyerTalk — “old-school but gold,” Jeff says. A forum packed with tips and redemption stories from other points nerds.

Advanced Moves

* Shop through airline portals: Log in to your airline’s site before shopping at places like Nike or Apple to earn bonus miles.

* Plan ahead (or super last-minute): Airlines release award seats about 11 months out—but also often open last-minute availability.

* Be flexible with airports: Jeff once positioned his family to Austin to catch a promo award flight to Europe. “A night of barbecue in Texas was worth the savings,” he joked.

The Big Payoff

Jeff’s all-time favorite redemption? Flying his family of four to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil—all in business class. “That was the high point,” he said. “Once you’ve seen your kids stretched out in lie-flat seats, it’s hard to go back.”

Meet Jeff Neer

Jeff Neer is a husband, father, travel connoisseur and a points and miles enthusiast. Jeff and his family have been around the world using points, with their favorite spot being Melbourne, Australia. While they haven't been everywhere yet, everywhere is on the list for their next destination!

List of all the places Jeff and his family have traveled to so far using points and miles:

* South Africa

* Brazil

* Australia

* France

* Switzerland

* Germany

* Italy

* Netherlands

* England

* Hawaii

Jeff’s guidance demonstrates that, with targeted research and careful planning, anyone can access exceptional travel experiences using points. All it takes is a clear strategy, effective cards, and the willingness to redeem your points. As Jeff says, “Book the trip. Don’t wait for the perfect deal. The points are meant to be spent.”

Enjoy this interview? If so, please give it a quick ❤️, leave a comment below to help others discover it here on Substack or please forward to your friends.

Want to check out all other Mixtape Travels interviews? See here. You can also listen to all episodes on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Happy listening! 🎧

Emilie Brillon, a native Canadian from Quebec and founder of Love Life Abroad, is passionate about showcasing Canada beyond the usual tourist spots. From the vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes, Emilie shares insider tips on experiencing Canada like a local. In this podcast interview we discuss must-visit destinations, underrated culinary delights, and how to make the most of each season—whether it's a summer road trip along the coast or a winter adventure in the Rockies.

Emilie’s insights will inspire you to explore Canada with fresh eyes, whether you're planning your first visit or looking for new experiences. Tune in for practical travel tips, cultural highlights, and personal stories that bring Canada’s diverse regions to life including:

* German Christmas Market in Quebec City - a charming, European-style holiday market that transforms Old Quebec into a festive winter wonderland. Inspired by traditional Christmas markets in Germany, it offers an authentic holiday experience with twinkling lights, wooden stalls, festive music, and delicious seasonal treats. The market occurs every year between November 20th through December 23rd.

* Quebec Winter Carnival - one of the world’s largest and most famous winter festivals, held annually in Quebec City. It celebrates the joys of winter with a mix of cultural, sporting, and entertainment events, drawing visitors from around the globe. Mark your calendar to attend next year when the carnival takes place from February 6-15, 2026.

* VIA Rail Canadian - Canada’s legendary cross-country train that runs from Toronto to Vancouver, offering one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.

* Canadian Rockies - located in Alberta are a breathtaking mountain region known for their rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, and incredible outdoor adventures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of Canada’s most famous national parks and offers year-round activities, from hiking and wildlife spotting to skiing and hot springs.

* Canadian Badlands - a stunning, otherworldly region in southeastern Alberta, known for their rugged landscapes, hoodoos, and rich dinosaur fossils. This area, shaped by wind and water erosion over millions of years, offers dramatic scenery and fascinating history.

* Tofino - a stunning coastal town on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, known for its rugged beauty, surf culture, and outdoor adventures. It’s a year-round destination, offering everything from storm watching in winter to beach days and whale watching in summer.

* Nova Scotia - a beautiful maritime province in Canada, known for its stunning coastal scenery, rich history, fresh seafood, and friendly small towns. It’s a fantastic destination for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and road trips along its rugged coastline.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Emilie Brillon

Emilie Brillon is the founder of Love Life Abroad, where she helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families across Canada. Born and raised in Quebec, Emilie developed a passion for exploring new places early on. After an unforgettable family road trip across the country, she and her family chose to settle at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies.

Now based in Alberta, Emilie shares her love for Canada’s diverse landscapes — from the rugged Rockies to hidden gems in Quebec, British Columbia, and beyond.

Canadian Rockies Trip for Women this September 🏔️

Want to discover the beautiful Canadian Rockies this September 7-12th with Emilie? Check out this link for information and to sign up. The perfect Fall girl’s trip!

Thank you Emilie for this inspiring post on traveling all around the beautiful country of Canada! If you enjoyed this interview, please leave a ♥️ or comment below.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this interview, Bonnie vividly describes the bustling markets of Senegal, the remote villages of Guinea-Bissau, and the warm hospitality she encountered throughout her travels. From tasting local cuisine to witnessing unique cultural traditions, Bonnie highlights the beauty, history, and challenges of traveling in West Africa. She also delves into the importance of responsible tourism and how this journey deepened her appreciation for the region.

Bonnie booked her trip through a tour company in England called Native Eye, but the tour was run by a firm called TransAfrica, which is owned by an Italian who lives in Togo and specializes in tours in West Africa.

Whether you're intrigued by West African history, cuisine, or adventure travel, this conversation will inspire you to explore a part of the world that remains off the beaten path.

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Bonnie Hough

Bonnie is an attorney who has dedicated her career to helping people who cannot afford to hire lawyers get the information and support they need to represent themselves effectively in court. She worked for the California Judicial Council for 25 years developing a self-help website, self-help centers, understandable legal forms, videos and other informational resources. She trained thousands of court clerks, judges, interpreters, attorneys and paralegals on how they can help people navigate the court process. She retired in December 2022 and has been travelling, volunteering and consulting on access to justice issues. She serves as an elected school board member and was able to participate by Zoom in all three school board meetings held during her trip to Western African. Her most surprising new passion is going swimming in the San Francisco Bay at 7 a.m. every morning.

Few of Bonnie’s Travel Milestones:

* Traveled around the world 8 times (7 times by herself!)

* Has swum in all the oceans in the world without a wetsuit at least twice (including the Antarctic!)

* Swam in all 5 Great Lakes in the U.S. in one day

* Visited all 7 Modern Wonders of the World (and all 14 runners-up except Timbuctoo)

* Has traveled to over 120 countries

* Visited all U.S. Presidential Libraries, and at least one (Zachery Taylor) and often more (US Grant - ten) homes, gravesites and other locations

* Has traveled to all 50 states

* Toured over 50 Frank Lloyd Wright buildings

Can you say inspiring?!

You can follow Bonnie’s world travels on her new blog: www.bonnieflies.com

Thank you Bonnie for sharing your inspiring journey to Western Africa! If you enjoyed this interview, please leave a ♥️ or comment below.

Amy shares her transformative experience of a three-week solo trip to Paris, reflecting on the freedom and self-discovery that comes with traveling alone. She discusses her planning process, accommodations, and the importance of flexibility in exploring the city. Amy highlights memorable culinary experiences, her time spent in Versailles, and the valuable lessons learned about solitude and self-reflection. She also offers book and movie recommendations that capture the essence of Paris, encouraging listeners to discover the magic of solo travel and to “find your own Paris” wherever you may live. Amy also recommends that you send yourself postcards while traveling solo - an extra gift to yourself when you get home!

Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Amy Boyle

Amy Boyle is a multimedia journalist and host of the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast, based out of Chicago. She founded the 52 Phenomenal Women Project to amplify women's voices and stories. With over 19 years of experience, her work has been featured by Oprah Daily, Broadway productions, and major brands. A world traveler and keen observer, Amy blends storytelling, photography, and journalism to create impactful narratives. She holds a master’s from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications and now teaches there as an adjunct lecturer, shaping the next generation of storytellers while continuing her mission to celebrate resilience, creativity, and connection.

Amy’s Paris recommendations:

* Hotel worth the splurge: Hotel Dupond Smith (only has 8 rooms!)

* Must-visit bookstore: Shakespeare and Company

* Books to read: At the Existentialist Cafe by Sarah Bakewell, The Art of French Eating by Ann Mah, Paris by Gertrude Stein and The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

* Movies that take place in Paris: Julie and Julia, Before Sunset, and Midnight in Paris

* Favorite restaurants: La Mansion Rose, Le Consulat Café (great mussels and people watching!), Carnavalet Museum (beautiful garden for lunch) and La Tour outside of Paris in Versailles

Thank you Amy for sharing your inspiring solo trip to Paris! Here’s to embracing life as a true flaneuse!

🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen to “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet Rebecca Ryell

Rebecca Ryell is a mum of 3 boys, UK-based General Practitioner, travel coach, and home exchange expert. As a freelancer for HomeExchange, she creates webinars to help people navigate home swapping with confidence. She is also the founder of Rebecca Ryell Travel Coaching (www.rebeccaryell.com), where she helps families break free from their comfort zones and embark on adventurous, meaningful trips with their children.

Rebecca's passion for travel stems from her own experiences—she and her family have embraced long-term travel during maternity leaves and sabbaticals, immersing themselves in different cultures and learning from the world around them. She believes adventurous travel is not only fun but also deeply educational, offering children and parents alike a richer perspective on life.

Understanding the common barriers to extended travel—whether time, cost, or fear of the unknown—Rebecca helps families overcome these challenges through practical coaching, encouragement, and real-world solutions. Her mission is to empower families to make the most of this one, precious life through immersive and adventurous experiences.

Thank you so much Rebecca for sharing your expert tips on how to travel the world with your family with HomeExchange - so inspiring!

Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

Meet Susan Van Allen

Susan Van Allen, inspired by her Italian American heritage, is a writer, traveler, and storyteller. Her first writing success was the critically acclaimed one-woman play, Jersey Girls, in which she portrayed 5 characters in an Italian-American family. She later wrote for Everybody Loves Raymond, penning the beloved episode “Marie’s Meatballs.”

Blending her passions for writing and Italian travel, she authored 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go and several other bestselling books. Her work has been featured in major publications, on radio, and in Tastes of Italia magazine, earning her an international following.

Susan brings Italy to life through her Golden Weeks in Italy: For Women Only tours and as a Travel Expert for National Geographic Expeditions.

Live in the SF Bay Area?

Susan will be at Book Passage in Corte Madera, CA on Sunday, March 23rd at 4:00pm. Susan will be celebrating the 5th edition of her book, 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, and sharing all of her insights and advice about traveling to Italy. If you go, be sure to tell her that Shannon of The Gomes Guide sent you!

You can learn more about Susan and her Golden Weeks in Italy: For Women Only tours by visiting her website: https://www.susanvanallen.com.

As she mentions in the podcast, there are still spots available for her tours to Sicily and Ischia this fall. You can also subscribe to Susan’s Substack focused on Italy (see below) and follow her on Instagram @susanvanallen.

Thank you so much Susan for sharing your expertise and passion for Italy with all of us! Grazie Mille!

One of Joanne's favorite places in the world is the country of Morocco. From the gracious people, incredible cities, and landscapes to its delectable food, Joanne has been mesmerized by Morocco since she first visited in 1992. Since then, she has returned every year, taking people on her culinary tours to experience the magic and wonder of this country, which is a complete sensory experience. 

Morocco has always been high on my bucket list, and it will likely rise to the top of your list after listening to my podcast interview with Joanne.  Learn more about Joanne and this interview on The Gomes Guide Substack.  

One of her most significant achievements is walking from Bangkok to Barcelona on foot with her partner Lluís – walking nearly 10,000 miles across two continents!  Listen in to this interview to learn more about their incredible journey.  

You can learn more about Jenn Baljko by visiting her website: alwaysonmyway.com.