Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast

https://amateurtraveler.com/uk-two-week-itinerary-by-train/ Hear about a UK two-week itinerary by train as the Amateur Traveler talks to Tracy Collins from UKTravelPlanning.com about a train trip in the country that invented trains. London We start in London. Spend some time visiting some of the iconic sites like the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey. Visit the great museums of London like Tracy's favorite, the Victoria and Albert Museum. Then we start our journey to see England, Wales, and Scotland from Paddington Station. Bath Visit the historic Roman Baths from which Bath gets its name. Visit the magnificent Bath Abbey. Stroll through the iconic Royal Crescent with its Georgian Architecture. Immerse yourself in Jane Austen's world at the Jane Austen Centre. As a side trip from Bath, consider one of the following Tour the stone circles of Stonehenge and Avebury. Explore the awe-inspiring Salisbury Cathedral. Take a scenic train ride to the picturesque Cotswolds. Cardiff Travel to the capital of Wales, Cardiff. Explore the historic Cardiff Castle. Embark on an exciting Cardiff Dr. Who Tour. Visit the impressive Principality Stadium. Option 1: Liverpool Take a train to Liverpool, the home of The Beatles. Join the magical Mystery Tour to learn about the Fab Four. Visit the historic Albert Dock including the International Slavery Museum. Option 2: Lake District Explore Bowness-on-Windermere, a charming lakeside town. Visit Dove Cottage, the former home of William Wordsworth. Experience the charm of Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's House. Edinburgh Take a train to Scotland's capital of Edinburgh. Walk the Royal mile from Edinburgh Castle to the historic Holyrood Palace. Hike up Arthur's Seat or Calton Hill for stunning views. Dare to venture into the mysterious Edinburgh Vaults. As a side trip from Edinburgh consider: Travel to nearby Glasgow. Admire The Kelpies, Scotland's mythical horse sculptures. Visit St Andrews, the birthplace of golf. York Take the Jacobite Steam Train through Tracy's native Northumberland to the city of York. Explore the Roman history at the Roman Bath in York. Discover the Viking legacy at the Jorvik Viking Centre. Wander through the charming Shambles. Visit the wonderful Railway Museum. Return back to London. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Best Day Trips from Amsterdam (Podcast) - explore the palaces, castles, windmills, parks, and history of the Netherlands https://amateurtraveler.com/best-day-trips-from-amsterdam/ Hear about day trips from Amsterdam as the Amateur Traveler talks to Gopinath from greetingsfromeurope.com about his adopted country. Gopinath argues that too many people only spend a couple of the Netherlands before traveling on to see more of Europe. He lays out a week's worth of day trips that one can make from Amsterdam. He recommends the following places to visit: Located in Gelderland, the Palais Het Loo is often associated with Queen Wilhelmina. Explore its impressive architecture, gardens, and the connection between the Dutch royal family and this palace. Drive from the Palace at Low towards Amsterdam, and you'll come across Muiderslot Castle, dating back to the 13th century, making it the oldest accessible site for visitors in the Netherlands. It's conveniently located less than half an hour from Amsterdam. You can reach the castle by car, public transport, or even take a ferry from Amsterdam in the summertime, adding a unique touch to your visit, as the castle sits at the meeting point of the River Vecht and the South Sea. Nearby, you'll find the old star fortress city of Naarden, just two miles from Muiderslot Castle. While the city's layout may not be as impressive in person as it appears from an aerial view, it still offers a charming Dutch town experience with few tourists. Additionally, the small town of Muiden, just a minute from the castle, is worth a visit, featuring monumental and historic buildings, a beautiful marina, and picturesque views of the River Vecht and the South Sea. Located in Baarn, Castle Groeneveld is a grand estate with beautiful gardens. Giethoorn, a charming small village in the eastern part of the Netherlands, is approximately an hour and a half from Amsterdam and is often referred to as the "Dutch Venice." This picturesque place is famous for its canals and bridges. What sets Giethoorn apart is the wide canals, a result of historical peat extraction. Renting a boat is highly recommended. Drive back to Amsterdam over one of the closure dykes to get a glimpse at how the Dutch have reclaimed so much of their country from the sea. Feiluwa National Park park is known for its greenery and is popular with locals. It lacks the typical mountains and valleys found in U.S. national parks, but that just makes it better to explore by bike from its fleet of bikes. The historical hunting lodge in the park features a viewpoint tower and scenic lakeside views. The Kroller Muller Museum in the park houses a significant collection of art, especially from Van Gogh, making it a great alternative to the crowded Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Kinderdijk is a UNESCO heritage site known for its 19 windmills. Take a boat ride and a glimpse into Dutch history and water management. North of Amsterdam are the Dutch Golden Age cities of Horn and Enkhuizen with rich history, including impressive buildings, and the Zuiderzee Museum. Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum near Amsterdam showcasing the Zaandam region's industrial and cultural heritage, including windmills and Dutch traditions. Gopinath also recommends you visit fishing villages like Volendam and Edam, known for their maritime history and cheese production. These day trips offer a mix of historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and royal connections, providing a diverse and enriching experience in the Netherlands. See why Gopinath thinks the Netherlands deserves more of your visit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-new-york-city/ Hear about travel to New York City as the Amateur Traveler talks to Rebecca Shoval from Not Just Tourists NYC about her adopted home in the city that never sleeps. Why should you go to New York City? Rebecca says, "I think someone should come to New York for so many reasons. I think it's this incredibly vibrant place. It exudes life and I find walking around the city, it really just gives you energy. It's also this vibrant multicultural place where you can really see the way that there's so much commitment to the city and to the culture and to people really living in something resembling harmony next to each other... or at least ignoring each other and not getting in each other's business. There are so many different things to do." Rebecca says that the city has changed since COVID-19. She highlights how the city has recovered and transformed from the pandemic's impacts, offering a unique perspective on what makes New York a vibrant and dynamic place. Rebecca recommends exploring different boroughs and neighborhoods within New York City. The city's diversity is reflected in its various neighborhoods, each with its own cultural influences and attractions. She particularly recommends Queens, known for its ethnic neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, offering immersive food tours and unique experiences. Public transportation is an essential part of the New York experience. Rebecca emphasizes the convenience of using apps like MyMTA, MTA Bus Time, and Train Time to navigate the city's extensive subway, bus, and train systems. The ease of using Apple Pay or Samsung Pay to access public transit now makes travel efficient and hassle-free. The Staten Island Ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Southern Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey. It's a free ferry that provides a unique and picturesque perspective of iconic landmarks. Rebecca suggests taking this ferry to get a feel for the city's beauty from the water. The Tenement Museum provides insights into New York's immigrant history, showcasing how various ethnic communities lived and worked. She would recommend that museum or the New York Historical Society instead of a trip to the World Trade Center Memorial for those interested in history. Walking across iconic bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge provides breathtaking city views. Additionally, taking city ferries offers an alternative way to see New York's skyline from the water. Rebecca recommends seeing New York from above but suggests skipping touristy skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and opting for bars or restaurants with panoramic views. The Graduate Hotel's rooftop bar on Roosevelt Island is recommended for its exceptional view of Manhattan and surrounding areas. You have to check out the entertainment scene in New York. Broadway is amazing for its incredible talent and performances, while jazz enthusiasts are advised to explore smaller venues like Arthur's Tavern, Cellar Dog, and Somewhere Nowhere for a more interactive experience. Try visiting parks like Brooklyn Bridge Park, Prospect Park, and Domino's Sugar Factory, which offer unique recreational spaces and city views. For ionic New York food, you have to consider getting bagels and pizza. Joe's Pizza and Tompkins Square Bagels are Rebecca's favorites. Try street food, especially halal carts which are much more prevalent than hot dog stands in New York these days. Try some cuisine you can't get at home like Caribbean food, regional Chinese, or Burmese cuisine. Eat something at a bodega. Rebecca's favorite restaurants include the experimental restaurant Fulgrances in Brooklyn which is notable for its rotating chefs and wine selection. Another favorite is Little Myanmar in the East Village, which serves Burmese food. She recommends the pasta at Nona Dora's (even the Gluten-free). Reservations are advised due to ongoing restaurant challenges post-pandemic. Use the Rezy app. Wear comfortable shoes, carry a reusable water bottle, and bring a sense of adventure as you explore one of the world's greatest cities, New York City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-belize-and-guatemala/ Hear about travel to Belize and Guatemala on the G Adventures "Classic Belize and Tikal" week-long small group tour: Mayan pyramids, cave tubing, and snorkeling on the Barrier Reef. An adventurous trip to Belize and Guatemala. The tour started in Belize City, traveled to Flores in Guatemala, and then returned to San Ignacio Belize and the Island of Caye Caulker. One of the highlights was visiting Mayan ruins, including Yaxha and Tikal in Guatemala and Caracol in Belize. I climbed to the top of 4 pyramids in 3 sites while learning about the Mayan Classical age from 200 to 900 AD. We saw Mayan ballcourts, temples, and noble houses. These sites are all in the jungle with the sounds of howler monkeys in the background and spider monkeys and kudamundi wandering the grounds. We saw tucans, turkeys, and other birds. We stayed in the colorful island town of Flores Guatemala which is a center for tourism for Tikal. We did cave tubing in Belize "near" San Ignacio, Belize. We floated through caves on inner tubes. We could get out of the tubes in the cave and see artifacts left by the Mayans of the Classical Period. Some of the group went to the well-known ATM cave where there are still the remains of some who were sacrificed to the gods at the end of the Classical Period. Others visited the Raptor Center where they got to interact with birds of prey. The trip concluded on Caye Caulker, an island in the Caribbean Sea, where our group went snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef, encountering diverse marine life including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, rays, and sharks. We toured the island with local high school students as part of Bikes with Purpose. We concluded our trip with a lazy sunset cruise. This was an adventurous tour. It is meant for people who are open to taking a crowded local bus, jumping into the water in a dark cave, and following a guide through the jungle canopy at a Mayan site. If you are such a person, the G Adventures "Classic Belize and Tikal" might be a great use of a week's vacation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://amateurtraveler.com/nepal-itinerary/ Hear about a 10-day itinerary for travel to Nepal as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sean Hira about this beautiful country. Why should someone go to Nepal? Sean says, "Nepal's a little bit of an underrated destination. It's a landlocked country in the Himalayas sandwiched between two powerhouses, China. In India. My favorite part about Nepal is really the harmony between Hinduism and Buddhism and seeing those cultures coexist so peacefully from a tourist perspective. A lot of people go there for the trekking and the intense base camp trekking and the first thing that probably comes to your mind is Mount Everest, but there is so much more to Nepal than Mount Everest or Annapurna. The Himalayas are ingrained in the culture there, but you can see so much more than just trekking in Everest." Sean lays out this itinerary: Day 1: Kathmandu Orientation walk around Patan Durbar Square. Explore local bazaars and historical sites. Sunset at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Durbar Square. Day 2: Kathmandu Early morning visit to Boudhanath Stupa for monk rituals. Breakfast at a restaurant overlooking the stupa. Visit Pashupatinath Temple and experience Hindu rituals. Optional: Visit Bhaktapur and Nagarkot (extra day trip). Day 3: Transfer to Bandipur Private transfer from Kathmandu to Bandipur. Orientation walk around Bandipur village. Sunset at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Himalayan foothills. Day 4: Bandipur Sunrise viewpoint over the Annapurna region. Breakfast and leisure time. Easy hike to the "Great Wall of Bandipur" viewpoint. Day 5: Transfer to Pokhara and Uluru Village Transfer to Pokhara, stop for lunch, and rent trekking gear. Continue to Uluru Village, north of Pokhara. Prepare for the upcoming trekking adventure. Day 6-8: Trek to Poon Hill in Annapurna Region Begin a three-day moderate trek to Poon Hill. Experience stunning landscapes, forests, and villages. Stay in village homestays along the route. Reach Poon Hill for panoramic Himalayan views. Trekking altitudes vary from around 1,000 to 3,200 meters. Day 9: Return to Pokhara Complete the trek and return to Pokhara. Relax and enjoy Pokhara's amenities after trekking. Day 10: Fly back to Kathmandu Fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. Revisit attractions or experiences missed earlier. Last-minute shopping or exploration in Kathmandu. Day 11: Departure Depending on your flight schedule, free time in the morning. Depart from Kathmandu's International Airport. Sean also talks about some extensions you could do including a Panauti Community Homestay. If you are looking for an adventure, Nepal could be the place to go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-svalbard-norway/ Hear about travel to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Cherie Gonzales from itscheriegonzales.com about her home north of the Arctic Circle. Why should you go to Svalbard? Cherie says, "Someone should go to Svalbard if you are adventurous and you love being outside and you want to experience the natural beauty and just really connect with nature without any interruptions. Then Svalbard is really the perfect destination for you. It has new landscapes, new experiences, in the summer." "You'll experience midnight sun, and then in the winter, you'll experience polar night. And the nature is literally outside your door. The apartment where I live right now, it's 2 kilometers away from the center of the town. But it's less than a kilometer walk and you're already at the start of the trail that goes to a glacier, goes to an ice cave, and all that." Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, is nestled between mainland Norway and the North Pole. With its coordinates at an astonishing 78 degrees north, it boasts the title of the world's northernmost community, housing around 2,500 inhabitants. Cherie talks about the town of Longyearbyen, Svalbard's largest settlement, and its modern infrastructure, including hotels, shops, restaurants, and good Wi-Fi. She emphasizes the need to carry rifles for polar bear protection when venturing outside the town. Cherie also provides valuable tips for planning a visit to Svalbard, such as joining guided tours, experiencing local accommodations, and appreciating the natural beauty of the region. Cherie brings her perspective to Svalbard, having been drawn to its charm despite her tropical roots. Her journey from the Philippines to the Arctic was marked by a stint as a cruise ship chef before she set foot on Svalbard. Cherie recommends visiting Svalbard during the spring months for more daylight and various outdoor activities. Summer offers opportunities for hiking, while winter provides a chance to experience the polar night. She mentions key attractions such as Plata Fiala for panoramic views, boat cruises to see wildlife and glaciers, and visits to Russian settlements like Pyramiden and Barentsburg. Svalbard offers a majestic and unique Arctic experience for adventurous travelers seeking a connection with nature and a taste of life at the northernmost reaches of the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-galapagos-islands-ecuador https://amateurtraveler.com/galapagos-cruise-on-quasars-evolution/ Hear about travel to the Galapagos Islands as Chris Christensen, the Amateur Traveler himself, talks about a live-aboard cruise of the Galapagos Islands on Quasar Expeditions M/V Evolution. The Galapagos is a singular destination. People describe other places as the 'Galapagos of Mexico or the Galapagos of some other place' but the Galapagos doesn't try and compare itself to anywhere else. This is a must-see destination for people who want a vacation to see wildlife. People can tell you how the wildlife here is different because it does not fear humans but until you are standing by a giant tortoise, walking through a booby nesting ground, or swimming with sea turtles and sea lions, it is hard to understand what that really means. This is a place where you come to see giant tortoises or iguanas, but it is also a place to see interesting bird species like Nasca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and red-footed boobies. But it is also a place to experience the islands under the water. Have you swum with turtles, penguins, and sharks... on the same day? Have you had sea lions swim circles around you? The best way to experience the Galapagos Islands is on a live-aboard boat. I was fortunate enough to be invited by award-winning Quasar Expeditions to explore the Galapagos on their M/V Evolution as their guest (they paid). This 32-passenger boat is one of the larger boats that explores the Galapagos. I describe a one-week itinerary to the eastern islands in the Galapagos including stops at: San Cristóbal Island, South Plaza Island, Santa Cruz Island, Mosquera Island, Sombrero Chino, Santiago Island, Genovesa Island, Isla Seymour Norte, Santa Fe Island, and Floreana Island. If the Galapagos are not on your bucket list... they should be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://amateurtraveler.com/azerbaijan-itinerrary/ Hear about an itinerary for travel to Azerbaijan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Australian journalist Emily Lush who is based in nearby Kutaisi, Georgia. Why should you visit Azerbaijan? Emily says, "It's really fascinating from a cultural point of view. Being in the Caucasus, it's got those great mountain areas for hiking. It's a misunderstood country in a lot of ways. It's quite young and it has this really Interesting history with all different influences." "And then the oil stuff, so maybe people know it's a wealthy country with really outlandish modern architecture, but then there are also quite a few UNESCO sites that are really, very old and very interesting. It's a very complicated country with a little bit of everything, like this region." We start in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, which is situated on the Caspian Sea, below sea level. Explore the Old Town (Esher Esher) with its historic architecture, including the Shivan Shah Palace. Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by Zaha Hadid, and other interesting landmarks like the Flame Towers. Take a day trip to Gobustan, south of Baku, to see the fascinating mud volcanoes and ancient rock carvings, a UNESCO site. Visit the Fire Temple of Ateshgah and the burning mountain of Yanadag. Consider visiting Nakhchivan, an autonomous republic that can only be accessed by flying from Baku. Explore the Machu Picchu of the Caucasus, Alinjagala Fortress, and other attractions. Head northwest and visit Kynalik, one of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe. Experience the traditional way of life, including homestays, and enjoy hiking in the beautiful mountain setting. As you head northwest, you can stop at Quba, a small village known for its exquisite carpet workshops. Watching skilled artisans create beautiful carpets is a unique experience. Continue to Lahıc, another mountain town with copper workshops and traditional crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to buy a samovar, a traditional tea-making instrument. Next, venture deeper into the mountains to Gabala, a popular ski resort with stunning scenery. Even if you visit in spring, you can still enjoy a cable car ride and savor fresh river fish in nearby restaurants. Shaki is a highlight of the trip, a charming city with a fascinating history and well-preserved monuments from the Silk Road era. Explore caravanserais, the Palace of the Shekhi Khan with its Persian miniature paintings and unique Shaki glass. Visit Kiş to see the oldest Caucasian Albanian temple, with mysterious origins. For those with more time, Lankaran in the south offers tea plantations and a unique tea house culture. Also, keep an eye out for vintage Lada cars, as they are still popular in Azerbaijan. Overall, this trip combines history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making Azerbaijan a fantastic destination to explore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Hikone and Gifu in Central Japan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Miyuki Seguchi from the Japan Experts Podcast about he home region of Japan where she is a tour guide. Why should you visit Central Japan? Miyuki says, "A lot of travelers from North America or the West when they travel to Japan, they will stay in Japan for two to three weeks, and they usually travel from the eastern part of Japan to the western part of Japan or vice versa, but most of them do not stop off at the central region especially the southern part of Gifu to the eastern part of Shiga. So this part of Japan is simply not as well known as major tourist destinations, but there are a lot of places to visit, and these places are usually less busy and easy to access by public transport. If you want to explore some unique local areas with hidden gems that give you a great idea of authentic local life." The journey begins with a visit to Hikone, a city located in the Chubu region, home to the well-preserved Hikone Castle, one of Japan's five national treasure castles. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride on the moat surrounding the castle and explore the beautiful gardens. Additionally, Miyuki recommends a boat trip to Chikubu Island on Lake Biwa to experience the coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism. Next, the itinerary takes travelers to Sekigahara, a town known for the historic Battle of Sekigahara which changed Japan's history. Here, they can visit the Battlefield Memorial Museum to learn about the battle. Moving west, the tour arrives in Gifu City, the largest city in Gifu Prefecture. A unique highlight here is the Ukai Cormorant Fishing, a tradition dating back over 1,300 years. This fishing method involves trained cormorant birds catching fish. The fishermen have an honorary position delivering fish to the Japanese imperial family. The Nagaragawa Ukai is famous for preserving this tradition, and visitors can experience it between May and October. There's also the opportunity to visit the Ukai Cormorant Fishing Museum for deeper insights into this cultural practice. Go out at night on a boat to watch this spectacle. For accommodations, staying in a traditional ryokan is recommended, where you can try the high-quality multi-course Japanese meal called kaiseki ryori. Don't miss the chance to visit a hot spring or onsen. The next day, explore the Kawaramachi district, a historic area with traditional merchant houses. The Nagaragawa River, one of Japan's cleanest rivers, has contributed to the development of craft-making, particularly Japanese paper called washi. Climb Mt. Kinka to get a panoramic view of the region, including the Japan Alps and the city of Nagoya. The summit can be reached by cable car or a one-hour hike. In the north of Gifu, you can explore Mino and Seki cities. Seki is renowned for its sword and knife-making tradition, offering the chance to witness skilled craftsmanship. Mino is also famous for its washi paper production, and you can visit the Washinary shop for various washi products. Overall, Gifu Prefecture offers a blend of traditional culture, scenic beauty, and unique experiences. If you travel between Tokyo and Kyoto, you will pass right by. show notes - https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-hikone-and-gifu-japan/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Cartagena and Northern Colombia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Inge from DestinationExplorer.world about this South American country that her family fell in love with. Why should you go to Colombia? Inge says, "I think first of all, if you are a nature lover, you should go to Colombia because it's amazing nature you will find there. It's still quite authentic. You have amazing wildlife. If you like bird watching it's the country to go to. You have mountains, beaches, desert, jungle." "And if you are a city lover, there are also big cities. I think the people are amazingly friendly. My daughter lived with the local people, which we visited when we went to Colombia. And it was such warm hospitality. I never felt it before. Then the colorful culture. I like dancing. They have a lot of music there. They're dancing from the morning till the evening." "Then the coffee. If you're a coffee lover, you should also go there." "Many are concerned about the safety of the country. That was the question everyone asked me, oh, your daughter is going to stay in Colombia. Is it safe? But I can tell you it is as long as you go to the right places there. There are some places you better not go into. But we never felt uncomfortable. We always felt safe everywhere we went. In the past Colombia wasn't as safe as it is today." Our adventure begins in the enchanting city of Cartagena, where you'll be captivated by the colonial charm and Caribbean vibes. This is a tropical city on the northern shore of the country. It will be colorful and it will be hot. Start your exploration in the heart of Cartagena's historic district, Barrio Getsemani. Stroll through its colorful streets or take a walking tour. immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Inge guides us to rooftop restaurants where we can enjoy sunsets and cold drinks. Don't miss Plaza de la Trinidad, a lively square where locals and travelers gather to enjoy music, street performances, and vibrant nightlife. Visit Parque del Centenario, a picturesque centennial park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. If you ask a local they can help you find the sloths in the park. For breathtaking sunset views, head to Cafe del Mar Cartagena, a renowned rooftop bar overlooking the Caribbean Sea. If you're interested in history, visit the imposing Castle San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress that played a crucial role in protecting the city from invaders. After immersing yourself in the charm of Cartagena, venture towards Santa Marta on your way, make a stop at Minca, a picturesque mountain village surrounded by lush vegetation. Explore Pozo Azul, a series of natural pools and cascades where you can cool off and enjoy the beauty of the jungle. Discover the rich flavors of Colombian coffee on a coffee tour, where you'll learn about the coffee-making process and savor the finest brews. For a unique stay, consider El Paraiso de Tuki B&B Cafe y Cacao Farm, where you can immerse yourself in the world of cocoa and experience the authentic charm of a working farm. Continue your journey to the renowned Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, a paradise of pristine beaches and dense jungles. Stay at Senda Koguiwa or Senda Watapuy, idyllic hotels nestled in the heart of nature, where you can relax and unwind. Explore the wonders of Tayrona National Park, including its hikes, beaches, and wildlife. You will see monkeys... you might see a jaguar or a crocodile. When you are in Cartagena, people will try and sell you a tour of Playa Blanca or the Rosario Islands but Inge says if you are looking for the Colombian paradise island that they are selling you should visit San Andrés instead. Colombia is a destination that offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical wonders to natural marvels. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with warm hospitality, warm weather, and a rich cultural heritage. https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-cartagena-and-northern-colombia/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Albania as the Amateur Traveler talks to Norm Bour from travelyounger.com about the country where they spent nearly 6 months as expats. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Lake Garda and the Verona Countryside as the Amateur Traveler talks to Valeria Biasi from Verona Tours about the region she calls home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about a road trip in Armenia as the Amateur Traveler talks to John from JohnTheTraveler.com about his recent visit to this former Soviet country in the Caucasus Mountains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Baja California Sur in Mexico as the Amateur Traveler talks to Rebecca Agiewich, the Ambivalent Part-time Expat, about her recent road trip south of the border. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Toronto, Ontario as the Amateur Traveler talks to Erin Hynes from PinaTravels.org and the Alpaca My Bags podcast about her hometown and Canada's largest city. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about sailing in the Saronic Islands and the Peloponnese as the Amateur Traveler talks about his recent yacht charter with Navigare Yachting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Washington D.C. as the Amateur Traveler talks to Rob from TripHacksDC.com about the city where he is a tour guide and podcaster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the western part of Michigan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Veronica Bareman from HipGrandmaLife.com and Holland Michigan about her neck of the woods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about things to do in San Diego California as the Amateur Traveler talks to Maria Hasse from SanDiegoExplorer.com about her adopted hometown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Cambodia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Matt from XpatMatt.com about a 10-day itinerary in this rapidly changing Asian country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the Caribbean on the Windstar Sea Breeze as the Amateur Traveler talks about small ships cruising to St Maarten, Barbados, St Lucia, and Antigua. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about a 7-day itinerary in Puglia in southern Italy as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kate Storm from OurEscapeClause.com about her trips to this up-and-coming destination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the Island of Montserrat as the Amateur Traveler talks to Dan Dekker about his visits to this island with an active volcano. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about a one-week itinerary for your travel to Tamil Nadu in Southern India as the Amateur Traveler talks to Girin Nayak about his native region. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about going on safari in Uganda as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jagdeep Sahni about his recent trip to this East African country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the state of Wisconsin as the Amateur Traveler talks to Dannelle Gay from TravelingCheesehead.com about her home state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Fiji (the islands of Viti Levu and Taveuni) as the Amateur Traveler talks to Justin Barnes about his recent trip to this island nation including some pretty amazing scuba diving experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about luxury barge cruising on the Canal de Briare in the Loire Valley of France as the Amateur Traveler talks to Rose Palmer from quilttripping.com about her recent adventure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the Queensland Outback as the Amateur Traveler talks to Melissa from Queensland about a destination she discovered during the pandemic when she could not leave her home state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A special feed drop episode from another podcast. This episode is from my podcast brother Jason at Zero to Travel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the province of Galicia in Northern Span as the Amateur Traveler talks to Lisa Rose Wright about her adopted home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sharezal Abdul Wahid the Director of Concierge at the Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur about his country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the island of Grenada in the West Indies as the Amateur Traveler talks to Caleb Sedam about the tropical paradise where he recently finished med school. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about things to do in Istanbul and in Trabzon on the Turkish Black Sea coast as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kimberly from The Art of Living in Turkey about her adopted country of Türkiye. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about fun things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland as the Amateur Traveler talks to Dan from the Zipping Around the World podcast about his recent trip to the capital of Scotland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer Sally Jane Smith about a great alternative to visiting the Greek Islands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Athens, Greece as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer Sally Jane Smith about Athens as a stop on the way to the Peloponnese Peninsula. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Calabria as the Amateur Traveler talks to expat Skyler Mapes from exauoliveoil.com who now lives in the region of southern Italy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Bangkok, Thailand as the Amateur Traveler talks to Michael Desrosiers from the Ear Goggles Podcast about his adopted hometown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the San Juan Islands and Whidbey Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Seattle local Alex Shoemann about these beautiful islands in the Puget Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about cruising the islands of Melanesia (Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu) as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sherry Ott from OttsWorld.com about an unusual expedition cruise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about a road trip in Nebraska from Omaha to Scott's Bluff along the Oregon Trail as the Amateur Traveler talks to Olivia Wieseler about her home state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Tanzania on safari as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jane Horlings about her recent trip to 3 of Tanzania's National Parks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico as the Amateur Traveler talks to Susan Metenosky from brooklyntropicali.com about the city she now calls home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about Puerto Rico travel tips as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jessica from The Dining Traveler about her home island of Puerto Rico. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Eswatini as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sam and Theo about the small African country (formerly known as Swaziland) they both used to call home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about things to do on the Island of Bonaire as the Amateur Traveler talks to Eric Gietman, owner of the Cadushy Distillery, about his adopted home of Bonaire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Okinawa as the Amateur Traveler talks to Mike de Jong about his visits to this tropical corner of Japan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Morocco as the Amateur Traveler talks to Azdean Elmoustaquim from the Destination Morocco site and podcast about his native country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about an itinerary for travel to Bolivia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jaybe Dear from The Only Way is Not Essex about her recent trip to this landlocked South American country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices