The Radio Vagabond
Palle Bo is a long time radioproducer who has sold his house, car and all of his furniture so he could travel around the world. He has an ambition to visit every country in the world and you can join his trip in this podcast. Come along as he meet the locals and experience Palle's excitements and concerns regarding the life as digital nomad.
S13 E362 · Sat, April 05, 2025
362 Exploring the Unexplored: Papua New Guinea, Syria, and Mauritania with Extraordinary Tour Guides
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we dive into the world of off-the-beaten-path travel with three extraordinary tour guides I met at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok. Join me as I talk to: David Van Driessche – a photographer and tour leader who brings travelers into the heart of Papua New Guinea’s remote tribal communities. Fadi Assi – a passionate advocate for tourism in Syria, offering eye-opening historical and cultural experiences. Baba Ahmed El Bekay – a pioneer of tourism in Mauritania, home to ancient cities, epic desert adventures, and the iconic Iron Ore Train. We discuss what makes these destinations so unique, why more travelers should consider visiting them, and how responsible tourism can have a meaningful impact. This episode is filled with insight, inspiration, and stories you won’t hear on your average travel show. Relevant Links: David Van Driessche: https://tribesofpapuanewguinea.com Fadi Assi: https://goldenteamsy.com Baba Ahmed El Bekay: http://www.toremauritania.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Read the full blog post here: https://theradiovagabond.com/36 2 -etf
S13 E361 · Sat, March 08, 2025
361 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL: Denmark’s Top Travelers on Exploring the World
In this episode, I’m joined by an incredible group of travellers with ties to Denmark. They’ve ventured to some of the world's most remote corners, pushed boundaries, and have fascinating stories to share. Meet Mette Ehlers Mikkelsen, one country away from visiting every UN nation, who is willing to quit her job to reach her final destination. Thor Pedersen, the man behind Once Upon a Saga , became the first person to visit every country without flying. Cathrine Krogh is an independent and fearless traveller who has visited 164 countries, often solo. Peter Fenger, a well-traveled adventurer who moves so fast I can barely keep up. And Per Besson, my co-host for this episode, a language genius who reached all 193 UN nations while learning local phrases along the way. We talk about their travel philosophies, what drives them to explore, and the challenges they’ve faced on the road. Get ready for some extraordinary travel stories! Tune in now for this Viking-style travel adventure! Relevant Links Read the full blog post here: https://theradiovagabond.com/361-etf Follow The Radio Vagabond: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond
S13 E360 · Sat, February 22, 2025
360 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL: Pushing Boundaries and Breaking Barriers
At the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, I sat down with three fascinating travelers who each have unique perspectives on seeing the world. Lakshmi Parthasarathy is a solo female traveler, challenging stereotypes and embracing adventure beyond traditional expectations. Raiiq Ridwan, a doctor in the UK traveling on a Bangladeshi passport, shares insights into navigating visa restrictions while still making his travel dreams come true. And Joel Olson , a dedicated explorer, has a deep appreciation for history and culture that fuels his passion for discovering the world. In this episode, we discuss: ✔️ Overcoming travel restrictions and visa challenges ✔️ What it’s like to travel solo as a woman ✔️ The power of storytelling and history in travel ✔️ Why going beyond the tourist trail leads to the best experiences Do you have a story about a travel challenge you’ve faced? I’d love to hear from you! Send me an email at listener@theradiovagabond.com , leave a voice message at https://theradiovagabond.com/contact , or DM me on Instagram @radiovagabond. Relevant Links Read the full blog post here: https://theradiovagabond.com/360-etf Follow The Radio Vagabond on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Make sure to subscribe to the podcast for more extraordinary travel stories from around the world!
S13 E359 · Tue, February 11, 2025
359 NOMADIC MATT: Is it Possible to Visit Iceland on a Budget?
We’ve just wrapped up four episodes from my time in Iceland – a country that’s as jaw-droppingly beautiful as it is expensive. But is there a way to travel this pricey paradise on a budget? That’s the question I’ll be tackling today with someone who knows a thing or two about affordable travel. I’d already heard the rumour, so in Reykjavik I set out to find out just how expensive it is and we start the episode back in Reykjavik where I walked into a supermarket to check the prices of random things. And then, I’m thrilled to welcome Matt Kepnes, aka Nomadic Matt, back to the podcast. He’s one of the most well-known names in travel. He’s the New York Times bestselling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and the creator of the massively popular blog, NomadicMatt.com . Over the years, he’s inspired millions to see the world without breaking the bank. And now, he’s back with a completely revamped version of his iconic guidebook. Now called How to Travel the World on $75 a Day . It’s not just an update – it’s almost an entirely new book, reflecting how travel has changed since the pandemic, with fresh tips, destination advice, and even new ways to save. Order the book here: https://www.nomadicmatt.com/how-to-travel-the-world/ #TravelOnABudget #NomadicMatt #BudgetTravel #Iceland #IcelandTravel #AffordableTravel #TravelHacks #Backpacking #Globetrotter #TravelPodcast
S13 E358 · Fri, February 07, 2025
358 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL: Singaporeans Who Go Beyond the Tourist Trail
Singapore may be small, but some of its travelers think big. In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I sit down with two passionate explorers from Singapore, Wee Cheng Tan and Redzuan “Red” Rahmat. They have spent years visiting places most people wouldn’t even think of, from remote territories to off-the-beaten-path destinations. We talk about what drives their curiosity, the unexpected challenges they face as Singaporean travelers, and how their perspectives on travel have evolved. If you’re someone who loves going beyond the typical tourist trail, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: ✔️ Why Singaporeans have a unique approach to travel ✔️ The power (and challenges) of holding a Singaporean passport ✔️ How slow travel creates more immersive experiences ✔️ Lessons from visiting lesser-known destinations 🎧 Tune in now and get inspired by these extraordinary travelers! Read the full blog post here: https://theradiovagabond.com/358-etf You can follow The Radio Vagabond on: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond <p class
S13 E357 · Mon, February 03, 2025
357 ICELAND (4:4): Tourists, Traditions, and Naked Showers
Iceland is full of surprises – from quirky Christmas traditions to a strict showering culture and an unexpected Eurovision obsession. In this episode of The Radio Vagabond , I talk to Alda Sigmundsdóttir, Helga, and Asbjørn about what Icelanders really think of tourists, the country’s fascinating language, and why some locals act like ‘shower police’ in public pools. We also uncover hidden gems in Iceland, the real truth about Icelanders and their love/hate relationship with Eurovision, and why so many travellers make the same mistakes when visiting this magical island. 🔗 Listen now and read more: https://theradiovagabond.com /357-iceland / Next week: I sit down with Matt Kepnes, aka Nomadic Matt, to discuss whether budget travel is still possible – even in expensive destinations like Iceland. Follow The Radio Vagabond on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond
S13 E356 · Sat, February 01, 2025
356 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL: Two Kiwi Travelers, Two Extreme Adventures
At the Extraordinary Travel Festival, I sat down with two incredible travellers: Christian Fleischer and Jonny Beardmore. Christian Fleischer, a New Zealander working in aviation, recently completed visiting every country in the world, finishing in the Bahamas. He shares what it was like to reach that milestone, plus stories of travelling between five-star luxury and extreme off-the-grid adventures. Jonny Beardmore , aka The Galápagos Postman, has been delivering 50 handwritten letters worldwide, continuing an old tradition from the Galápagos Islands. From Clown Town, Texas, to an emotional letter for a woman who couldn’t read, his journey is all about human connection – and he’s racing to finish before his big event in London on March 1st. In this episode, we dive into: What it’s like to visit every country in the world The wildest places Christian has stayed – luxury and survival travel Jonny’s most unbelievable deliveries (fairies, pirates, and lost love!) The emotional impact of his mission to fight Motor Neurone Disease What’s next for these two extreme travellers Relevant Links: Follow The Galápagos Postman on Instagram: @bigoadventures https://www.instagram.com/bigoadventures/ Join The Galapagos Postman Challenge Finish Line Charity Fundraiser Party in London on Saturday, March 1 2025. Track Jonny’s letter deliveries: Galápagos Postman Map https://z6z.co/galapagos-postman/ Support the fight against Motor Neurone Disease: MND NZ https://mnd-new-zealand-fundraise.raisely.com/thegalapagospostmanchallenge2024/ MND UK <a href= "https://www.justgiving.com/page/galapa
S13 E355 · Mon, January 27, 2025
355 ICELAND (3:4): How a Volcanic Eruption Transformed Iceland's Economy
Dive into the incredible story of Iceland's economic transformation. As I talked to some locals, I discovered how a volcanic eruption and innovative marketing turned a financial crisis into a tourism boom. Key Takeaways: Iceland's banking system collapsed in 2008 The Eyjafjallajökull volcano eruption unexpectedly boosted tourism From 500,000 to 2.6 million tourists in just eight years Unique insights into Icelandic culture and the Westfjords region Relevant Links: Inspired by Iceland Campaign: https://www.visiticeland.com Westfjords Tourism: https://westfjords.is Blog Post Link with pictures, videos and full article: https://theradiovagabond.com/355-iceland You can follow The Radio Vagabond on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond
S13 E354 · Fri, January 24, 2025
354 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL Randy Williams’ Unique Journey
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond as I chat with Randy Williams, aka R Dub, aka The Sultan of Slowjamastan. We talk about his legendary radio career, his adventures traveling to all 193 countries, and his quirky micronation, Slowjamastan. Plus, get inspired by Randy’s advice for aspiring travellers. 👉 Follow The Radio Vagabond : Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Read more here: https://theradiovagabond.com/354-etf Randy Williams , Slowjamastan , Sunday Night Slow Jams , Micronation , Travel inspiration , Radio career success
S13 E353 · Mon, January 20, 2025
353 ICELAND: Silfra, Geysers, and Local Insights
Join me on The Radio Vagabond as I continue my Icelandic journey! From diving at Silfra between tectonic plates to chatting with locals about sustainability and folklore, this episode dives into Iceland’s culture, quirks, and stunning nature. Find Alda’s books here: https://aldasigmunds.com 👉 Follow The Radio Vagabond : Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Read more here: https://theradiovagabond.com/353-iceland
S13 E352 · Fri, January 17, 2025
352 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL: Wisdom from Senior Travellers
Join me at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, where I sit down with four inspiring senior travellers. From cycling across the Sahara to navigating the Arctic, these adventurers prove that age is just a number. Hear their tips, tales, and thoughts on how travel has changed over the years. 👉 Follow The Radio Vagabond: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond Read more here: https://theradiovagabond.com/352-etf
S13 E351 · Tue, January 14, 2025
351 ICELAND: Fire, Ice, and Unpronounceable Adventures
Discover Iceland’s breath-taking landscapes and rich history as The Radio Vagabond kicks off a new season. Key links: The Blue Lagoon , weather.is and Northern Light . See pictures and read article on TheRadioVagabond.com/351-Iceland . Explore the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and Þingvellir National Park. Learn fun facts about Iceland’s quirks and unique culture. You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , X , and TikTok . If you like this podcast, please tell a friend.
S13 E350 · Sat, January 11, 2025
350 EXTRAORDINARY TRAVELS: How Young Explorers See the Globe Differently
Welcome to a new season with all new episodes. In this first one, you can join me for an inspiring episode recorded at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok – a celebration of extreme travel and adventure. This episode features four remarkable young travellers: Adam Ryan, Andriel Viana Souza, Cameron Mofid, and Ricky James. They share their unique approaches to travel, from cultural immersion and slow travel to philanthropy and tackling remote destinations. Key takeaways include: Adam Ryan : Discovering patience and adaptation on a transformative journey through India. Andriel Viana Souza : Exploring Afghanistan’s culture through photography and personal connections. Cameron Mofid : Building schools in Lagos, Nigeria, through his nonprofit, Humanity Effect. Ricky James : Gaining deep cultural insights from slow travel and immersive stays in conflict zones. Recorded during ETF, this conversation offers a glimpse into the lives of adventurous travellers, redefining what it means to explore. If you’re interested in unique perspectives on travel or dream of your next big trip, don’t miss this episode. 📖 Read the blog post here: theradiovagabond.com/350-etf 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!
Fri, December 27, 2024
SAUDI ARABIA: Discovering the Unique Charm of Riyadh (Flashback)
Join us as we explore Riyadh and go quad biking in the Red Sand Dunes. This is the first of many episodes from Saudi Arabia. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/248-saudi-arabia/
Fri, December 20, 2024
NORTH KOREA: I Took My Daughter to North Korea (Flashback)
When talking about a vacation, North Korea (or the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, as they like to call it) is usually not on people’s list of places to go. But we did. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/040-north-korea/
Fri, December 13, 2024
CAMBODIA: Hot Air Ballooning Over Temples (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond where I'm with my daughter and we share the top 7 things to see in Cambodia. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/035-cambodia/
Fri, December 06, 2024
TEXAS: Drummer, Storyteller, and Texan Paul Weyland (Flashback)
Welcome to the second half of my drive in Texas with my old buddy, Paul Weyland. We’re in the hill country north of Austin, and Paul will tell me a lot of interesting stories about this area, Austin, and Texas in general. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/199-drummer-storyteller-and-texan-paul-weyland/
Fri, November 29, 2024
GUINEA, AFRICA: Surprise: I Fell in Love with Conakry (Flashback)
In this podcast episode of The Radio Vagabond, I go for a walk in Conakry where I felt like I was the only tourist. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/126-guinea/
Fri, November 22, 2024
UGANDA: The Incredible Life of a Remarkable Woman (Flashback)
In this episode, Ugandan woman Susan Laker tells her life story. It’s an incredible tale of forced marriages, teenage pregnancy, hunger, and near-death experiences. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/269-uganda/
Fri, November 15, 2024
MOROCCO: Quad Buggy Buddies on Camels (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel outside Marrakech to drive ATV’s - or Quad Buggies; I also rode into the sunset on a camel. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/112-marrakech/
Fri, November 08, 2024
SRI LANKA: The Festival of the Tooth in Kandy (Flashback)
In this episode, I attend a festival with elephants in the parade. I didn't like that – but I loved everything else about the country. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/srilanka5-thumb.jpg
Fri, November 01, 2024
UKRAINE: Destroyed Village Close to the Frontline (Flashback)
In this episode, I uncover the human impact of war in the eastern part of Ukraine, sharing the stories and struggles of individuals and communities affected by the Russian invasion. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/287-ukraine/
Fri, October 25, 2024
UGANDA: Inspiring Success Stories in a Community of Hope (Flashback)
Discover the inspiring success stories of Acholi Quarter in Kampala, Uganda, as 22STARS helps the community battle challenges and thrive. Explore the microloan initiative helping small businesses, the resilient locals turning struggles into triumphs, and the gritty quarry that has become a lifeline for survival. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/268-uganda/
S12 E349 · Thu, October 24, 2024
349 GEORGIA (3:3): The Operation Abroad That Changed Everything
In this special episode of The Radio Vagabond, we explore Cynthia’s recovery after a serious arm injury in Georgia. From unexpected surgery to shocking post-op results, it’s a story about resilience, acceptance, and the unexpected twists of traveling while recovering. If you missed it, listen to the last part of our journey in Azerbaijan , where the accident happened. Learn more on TheRadioVagabond.com/349-Georgia
S12 E348 · Tue, October 22, 2024
348 GEORGIA (2:3): The Cradle of Wine
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond , we explore the breath-taking nature of Georgia and dive deep into its ancient winemaking tradition. You'll learn why Georgia is called the "Cradle of Wine" and how its rich wine culture began thousands of years ago. We also visit the stunning Gergeti Trinity Church, perched high in the Caucasus Mountains, and enjoy the incredible Georgian hospitality along the way. Don't miss this mix of history, nature, and unforgettable stories. Links: Visit theradiovagabond.com/348-georgia for pictures and so much more. Listen to the previous episode about Tbilisi and Georgian culture: theradiovagabond.com/347-georgia Wine Tasting : RostomaantMarani.ge
Fri, October 18, 2024
NASHVILLE: I Got a Permanent Souvenir (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond where I arrive in Nashville, the music capital of the world. I stayed with my Couchsurfing host Steve, who’s a musician and part of a fake punk band called Snake Vomit. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/069-nashville/
S12 E347 · Tue, October 15, 2024
347 GEORGIA: Tbilisi's Charm, Cable Cars, and a Mother with a Sword
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond , we explore the vibrant capital of Georgia – Tbilisi. Discover its blend of ancient history and modern vibes as we take a cable car ride to the iconic Mother of Georgia statue, stroll across the futuristic Peace Bridge, and visit Liberty Square with its towering pillar of St. George. Along the way, I chat with a Turkish traveller aiming to visit every country. We discuss when the best time is to visit and what you can expect from Georgia’s hospitality. Find more travel stories and adventures on The Radio Vagabond . Links to the episode with a ton of pictures: www.TheRadioVagabond.com/ 347-georgia
Fri, October 11, 2024
MOROCCO: A Real Nomad and My Visit to a Hospital (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond as I speak with a real nomad, Mokhtar. I also became a bit ill and had to rush off to the hospital. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/114-mokhtar/
Bonus · Tue, October 08, 2024
BONUS: The Robots are Taking Over The Show
While I'm busy working on the next regular episodes, I thought I'd let AI do this episode. This is produced 100% by AI. I asked Google Notebook LM to do a podcast about me and The Radio Vagabond, and here's what I got. I didn't write a word; the voices are 100% AI, and even the music after they finish their "Deep Dive" is AI. I guess I'll be out of a job soon. Let me know what you think. Send me a message on https://TheRadioVagabond.com/contact
Fri, October 04, 2024
INDIANA: I Served Beef to an Indian in Indianapolis (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I visit Indianapolis where I stay with an Indian Couchsurfing host who cooks me a wonderful Indian dinner on the first night. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/070-indiana/
S12 E345 · Tue, October 01, 2024
345 WE MARRIED ADVENTURE: A Travel Love Story of Mike and Angela Ballard
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond , I sit down with Mike and Angela Ballard from We Married Adventure . Together, they've traveled to over 120 countries on all seven continents. We talk about their journey as travel journalists, educators, and how they’re on a mission to find their next home. Plus, they share insights into family travel, scuba diving, and how to prioritize experiences over material things. Check out more about them on WeMarriedAdventure.com .
Fri, September 27, 2024
RIO DE JANEIRO: A Hang-Gliding Adventure (Flashback)
Get ready for the ultimate adrenaline rush as we dive into the world of hang gliding in Rio de Janeiro. Join us as we soar high above the city, taking in panoramic views and experiencing the thrill of a lifetime. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/295-rio-de-janeiro/
S12 E344 · Tue, September 24, 2024
344 AZERBAIJAN (3:3): A Mountain Adventure, a Car Crash, and Fleeing the Police
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we head to the Caucasus Mountains and experience breathtaking landscapes, almost run out of gas, and visit a tiny ancient village. But things take a dramatic turn when Cynthia gets hit by a car in Baku, breaks her arm, and we have to flee the country to avoid police troubles. Listen to this gripping adventure in the final part of our Azerbaijan series. Read more and see pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com/344-Azerbaijan .
Fri, September 20, 2024
UGANDA: Empowering Women in Uganda through Recycled Paper Jewellery (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond travel podcast, where I visit the Acholi Quarter in Kampala, Uganda. Hear how 22STARS is helping the local people here. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/267-uganda/
S12 E343 · Tue, September 17, 2024
343 AZERBAIJAN (2:3): Modern Wonders and Ancient Treasures
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we dive deep into Baku’s incredible transformation. From Soviet-era blocks to futuristic skyscrapers like the Flame Towers, Azerbaijan’s capital has undergone a stunning architectural makeover. We explore modern landmarks such as the Heydar Aliyev Center and the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, plus take a trip to Gobustan’s ancient petroglyphs and bubbling mud volcanoes. Want to see what Baku’s skyline looks like now? Check out the blog post at www. TheRadioVagabond.com /343-azerbaijan and follow @radiovagabond on Instagram for more updates.
Fri, September 13, 2024
CONNECTICUT, USA: Couchsurfing with New Friends (Flashback)
In this episode, I leave Providence and head to Connecticut where I Couchsurf my way through the city and make new friends at a CouchCrash. We tour the Mark Twain House & Museum and I take a drive with a former nomad, the local Margaret Webster. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/187-couchsurfing-in-connecticut/
S12 E342 · Tue, September 10, 2024
342 BAKU, AZERBAIJAN: The Land of Fire
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we’re diving into Baku, Azerbaijan – a city where ancient history meets ultra-modern architecture. Join me as I explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, uncover the mysteries of the Maiden Tower, and admire the futuristic Flame Towers that dominate the skyline. I’ll also give you insights into Azerbaijan’s complex relationships with its neighbors, including Turkey, Russia, Armenia, and Iran. From political tensions to cultural bonds, you’ll get a deeper understanding of this fascinating country. For more details, check out the blog post and see pictures at TheRadioVagabond.com/342-azerbaijan .
Fri, September 06, 2024
MACAU: The Worlds Highest Bungy Jump (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, join me as I arrive in Macau also known as the Monte Carlo of the Orient. I also jump off the world’s highest bungy jump. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/014-macau/
Fri, August 30, 2024
RWANDA: Genocide and Hiking the Thousand Hills (Flashback)
Discover Rwanda's captivating blend of nature and history. From solemn visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to thrilling hikes in the Thousand Hills, each moment is woven with cultural richness and natural beauty. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/299-RWANDA/
Fri, August 23, 2024
ANTIGUA & BARBUDA: Arriving to a Caribbean Paradise (Flashback)
I’ve been invited to go on a trip with around 40 content creators on this trip. There are some of the world’s best travel bloggers, YouTubers, Instagrammers, and then we’re two podcasters. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/130-antigua/
S12 E341 · Tue, August 20, 2024
341 ONTARIO CANADA: Rural Routes of Durham
Join me on a journey through the picturesque countryside of Durham Region, northeast of Toronto. In this episode, we explore scenic drives that take us through rolling hills, farmland, and charming small towns. Hop aboard the Town Trolley as we visit Tindall Farm Market , follow the historic Leaskdale Loop , and visit beautiful spots like The Sunflower Farm and <span class=
Fri, August 16, 2024
LIECHTENSTEIN: Majestic Mountains and Friendly Locals (Flashback)
Ready for some wanderlust-inducing travel inspiration? Liechtenstein's geographical magnificence and remarkable characteristics make it a dream destination for explorers. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/273-liechtenstein/
S12 E340 · Tue, August 06, 2024
340 INTERVIEW: Travel Talk With Francis Tapon
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I catch up with my good friend, Francis Tapon, in Toronto. Francis is an American author, world traveler , and podcaster known for his work with Wanderlearn. We dive into his incredible journeys, including visiting all 54 African countries without leaving the continent, climbing the highest peaks, and picking up 3000 hitchhikers. Francis has also complet ed the Triple Crown of Hiking and written a book, "The Hidden Europe . " Tune in for an inspiring conversation about travel, culture, and the world around us.
Fri, August 02, 2024
RIO DE JANEIRO: A City Alive with Passion and Resilience (Flashback)
From the electrifying Maracanã Stadium to the hidden gems of Vidigal Favela, my Rio adventure was a whirlwind of football frenzy and favela flair. Join me in exploring Brazil's vibrant culture. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/293-rio-de-janeiro/
S12 E339 · Tue, July 30, 2024
(FIXED) 339 ELK HORN, IOWA: A Danish-American Adventure (3:3)
There was an error in the version of the podcast, I published a few hours ago – so listen to this instead. ______ Join me as I discover the unique Danish-American community of Elk Horn, Iowa. I journey through the town's historic cemetery with local historian Warren Whatson, exploring Americanized Danish names. I also meet the charismatic Mayor Stan Jens, known for his community involvement and appearances on Danish TV. I learn about Elk Horn's efforts to preserve its Danish heritage through events like Tivoli Fest and local cuisine. I experience the warmth of this small Midwestern town that beautifully blends Danish traditions with American life.
S12 E339 · Tue, July 30, 2024
339 ELK HORN, IOWA: A Danish-American Adventure (3:3)
Join me as I discover the unique Danish-American community of Elk Horn, Iowa. I journey through the town's historic cemetery with local historian Warren Whatson, exploring Americanized Danish names. I also meet the charismatic Mayor Stan Jens, known for his community involvement and appearances on Danish TV. I learn about Elk Horn's efforts to preserve its Danish heritage through events like Tivoli Fest and local cuisine. I experience the warmth of this small Midwestern town that beautifully blends Danish traditions with American life.
Fri, July 26, 2024
HOUSTON, TEXAS: Creative Animal Making Noise (Flashback)
In this episode, I meet up with my old friend Doug Harris and go for a drive in his home town , Houston, Texas. We visit The Gents Place and Buffalo Bayou park . See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/196-houston-creative-animal-making-noise/
S12 E338 · Tue, July 23, 2024
338 ELK HORN, IOWA: A Journey Through Danish Roots
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond as I delve into the fascinating history of Elk Horn, Iowa, a small Midwestern town with a rich Danish heritage. Hear the story of Egon Simonsen, the last Danish immigrant in Elk Horn, and discover the serendipitous connection I found between my fictional tale and real history. We'll be back at the iconic Danish Windmill, meet its dedicated manager Lisa Steen Riggs, and explore the efforts to preserve Danish culture through the Museum of Danish America and Bedstemors Hus. This journey uncovers the vibrant Danish American community in Elk Horn and their commitment to preserving their roots. Don't miss this captivating exploration of Danish heritage in the heartland of America.
Fri, July 19, 2024
SRI LANKA: Unique Experiences in the Center of Sri Lanka (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I visit Sri Lanka and walk across rice fields down to a river where a “catamaran canoe” took me across, I then arrived at a small house with a grass roof. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/142-sri-lanka/
Bonus · Sun, July 14, 2024
337 BONUS EPISODE: Song about Danish Immigrants
A few days ago, I published an episode about Elk Horn, and in that one I told a story about some Danish immigrants. Here I also had a song created by AI about their story. I played small bits of it in the episode, but a few of you have written to me, asking to hear the entire song. Well, of course. While I’m working on the next episode from Elk Horn, here it is… If you haven’t heard the episode from Elk Horn yet, do that now. Not only am I telling the story about Christian and Mary and how they ended up here in Elk Horn, but I also meet the locals and visit their biggest attraction: an old Danish Windmill that was taken apart and sent to this small Midwestern town. It’s a fascinating story. In the next one, I will explore this Danish-American settlement more. My name is Palle Bo, and I gotta keep moving. See you.
S12 E336 · Sat, July 13, 2024
336 LAS VEGAS: The Ultimate Guide to Sin City's Top Attractions
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, join me as I take you on a whirlwind tour through the glittering wonderland of Las Vegas. From the sky-high adventure of the High Roller Observation Wheel to the sensory explosion of the Fremont Street Experience, we’ll explore the top seven must-see attractions that define the essence of Sin City. Whether you're mesmerized by the Bellagio Fountains or in awe of the engineering marvel that is Hoover Dam, this episode is your ultimate guide to experiencing the pulse-pounding excitement of the Entertainment Capital of the World. Tune in now and start planning your Las Vegas adventure. And then I share the story of when I was married in Vegas many years ago. <span class= "TextRun SCXW99787712 BCX0" lang="EN-GB" xml:lang="EN-GB" data-contrast="auto
Fri, July 12, 2024
NICARAGUA: Learning Spanish and Talking to the Locals (Flashback)
My flight from Chicago touches down in Managua in the afternoon and after a 45-minute drive to Granada, I arrive at my next home. It’s a called Paraiso Granada. The next two and a half weeks I’m staying in a wonderful apartment here in the center of Granada. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/080-nicaragua/
S12 E335 · Thu, July 11, 2024
335 ELK HORN, IOWA USA: Little Denmark on the Prairie
Welcome to Dane Country, the largest rural Danish settlement in the US. Join me as I explore Elk Horn, Iowa, and uncover the rich Danish heritage that still thrives today. From the historic Danish Windmill, originally built in 1848 and reassembled in Elk Horn, to the charming Bed and Breakfast run by Lynn and Trudy Juelsgaard, you'll discover how Danish traditions have been preserved and adapted in this unique American town. Along the way, we'll taste traditional Danish-American cuisine and learn about the town's proud history. Don't miss this deep dive into Little Denmark on the Prairie!
S12 E34 · Sat, July 06, 2024
334 BARCELONA: The Ultimate Guide to Its Most Important Attractions
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, join host Palle Bo as he takes you on a whirlwind tour through the iconic attractions of Barcelona, Spain. From the historic Montjuïc to the vibrant La Rambla, and from the football frenzy of Camp Nou to the artistic wonders of the Picasso Museum, Palle explores the rich tapestry of culture, history, and creativity that defines this beautiful city. Get ready to be inspired by the architectural marvels of Park Güell and the breath-taking Sagrada Família . Whether you're planning a trip or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of Barcelona, this episode is your ultimate guide. Listen now and start dreaming of your next adventure . Podcast Episode Link: http://theradiovagabond.com/334-barcelona
Fri, July 05, 2024
SOUTH AFRICA: Elephant Said, “Stay there, Man. Here Comes Baby” (Flashback)
Join me as I go on a hippo and croc cruise and then to Eswatini, Mozambique, Kruger National Park, Pretoria, and Soweto in Johannesburg. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/167-elephant-said-stay-there-here-comes-baby/
S12 E333 · Tue, July 02, 2024
333 PLAY ALONG: Would You Rather?
This episode was recorded last week on a road trip I did in Kirgizstan with my good friend, Cynthia. We’ve done this before when we did another drive through Saudi Arabia. It’s basically about choosing between two travel related bucket list things – and a great way of getting to talk about travel. This time we’ve asked ChatGPT to give us the questions: Would you rather : … hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru or the Torres del Paine Circuit in Chile? … take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia in Turkey or watch the Northern Lights from a glass igloo in Finland? … camp under the stars in Wadi Rum desert in Jordan or in the Sahara Desert in Morocco? <div class="OutlineElement L
S12 E332 · Sat, June 29, 2024
332 HONG KONG: Top 7 Tourist Hotspots for an Unforgettable Adventure.
Join me on The Radio Vagabond podcast as I explore Hong Kong's top 7 tourist hotspots for an unforgettable adventure. From the vibrant streets of Lan Kwai Fong to the breathtaking views from Victoria Peak, each destination offers a unique experience. Dive into the non-stop party at Lan Kwai Fong , ascend to Victoria Peak for jaw-dropping views, and experience the sensory extravaganza of Temple Street Night Market . Find tranquillity at the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade , unleash your inner child at <span class= "TextRun Underlined SCXW208867842 BCX0" lang="EN-GB" xml
Fri, June 28, 2024
MOROCCO: Meet The Magic Man of Marrakesh (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond where I visited Morocco and experienced the ultimate tourist thing and hopped on a red ‘hop-on-hop-off bus’. I also met a magic man in the Medina. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/111-marrakech/
S12 E330 · Sat, June 22, 2024
330 AMSTERDAM: Top 7 Must-See Attractions
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond podcast, join me as I take you on an exciting journey through the vibrant city of Amsterdam. We'll uncover the top 7 must-see attractions that this historical and picturesque city has to offer: 1. Vondelpark - Amsterdam's green getaway 2. Anne Frank House <span class= "NormalTextRun SCXW183129845 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="eop" data-ccp-charstyle-defn= "{"ObjectId":"596f06d3-8255-488c-86ea-6afb4062652d|36","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"eop",201340122,"1",134233614,"true",469
S12 E328 · Sat, June 15, 2024
328 Sustainable Travel: Top 7 Eco-Friendly Travel Destinations on Our Planet
Join us on a virtual journey to discover the top sustainable destinations around the globe! From Palau's coral reef paradise to Monteverde's cloud forest eco-lodges, we explore the eco-friendly initiatives of each destination. Learn about Tonga's low-impact beach bungalows, Tayrona National Park's indigenous-led tours, Copenhagen's cycle-friendly infrastructure, Fiji's wildlife protection efforts, and Bonaire's commitment to preserving reefs and nature reserves. Here are some relevant links for each of the seven destinations discussing their sustainability efforts. Palau Visitors Authority The Nature Conservancy <span class= "EOP SCXW180035424 BCX0" data-ccp
Fri, June 14, 2024
NEW YORK, USA: Humans of New York (Flashback)
Here is a special episode that I chose to call Humans of New York – The Podcast. In this episode you will get the answers to the first three questions: What’s the best part about living in New York? What’s the worst part about living here? If you were supreme leader of the city what would be your first executive order? See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/101-new-york/
S12 E327 · Tue, June 11, 2024
327 Diary from Uzbekistan: An Epic Journey
Join me, Palle Bo, on an incredible journey through Central Asia as I explore the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. In this diary episode, I recount my adventures from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient walls of Khiva. Discover my experiences in Beirut and Syria, my eye-opening encounters, and the heartwarming connections I've made along the way. Stay tuned for an update on my upcoming travels and personal milestones, including my daughter's graduation and a much-needed eye surgery in Denmark. Don't miss out on the latest chapter of The Radio Vagabond!
S12 E326 · Sat, June 08, 2024
326 DUBAI: Top 7 Tourist Hotspots You Can't Miss
Explore the glitz and glamour of Dubai with Palle Bo as he unveils the top 7 must-see attractions in this desert metropolis. From the iconic Dubai Fountain to the adrenaline-pumping adventures of a desert safari, this episode covers it all . Dive deeper into each attraction: Dubai Fountain Ski Dubai <span class= "NormalTextRun SCXW119
Fri, June 07, 2024
USA: The Wild West Experience from Billings and Yellowstone (Flashback)
I’m back in the USA, and this time I’ll be in Billings, Montana and Yellowstone National Park, where I get up close with a bunch of buffalos and big bear. I also visit a unique landmark without aliens. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/259-usa/
S12 E325 · Tue, June 04, 2024
325 EXPLAINER: What is The Radio Vagabond?
The Radio Vagabond is the ultimate travel podcast for those seeking to explore the world from the comfort of their homes. Join me, Danish traveler Palle Bo, on my quest to visit every country, meeting locals, experiencing cultures, and embarking on daring adventures. From hang gliding in Rio to climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge to observing war-torn Ukraine, no destination is off-limits. With fascinating storytelling and insights, my podcast inspires wanderlust and encourages getting out into the real world.
S12 E324 · Sat, June 01, 2024
324 Leap into Adventure: Asia's Top 7 Adrenaline Experiences
Join me as we embark on a whirlwind adventure across Asia, uncovering the continent's top 7 heart-racing adrenaline experiences. From the dizzying heights of the Kingkong Smile Zipline in Chiang Mai, where thrill-seekers can soar through Thailand's lush landscapes, to the ultimate leap of faith with a skydive over the majestic Mount Everest in Nepal, each adventure promises to push the limits of excitement. Experience the thrill of bungy jumping from the iconic Macau Tower, feel the heat of adventure as you float in a hot air balloon over Cambodia's ancient Angkor Wat at sunset, and dive into the vibrant underwater world of Sipadan, Malaysia, often hailed as the best dive site globally. Navigate the wild rapids of the Bhote Koshi River in Nepal, and glide over the picturesque landscapes of Bali in a paragliding journey that will leave you breathless. For those eager to dive deeper into these adrenaline-pumping adventures, I share personal anecdotes, safety tips, and the sheer exhilaration of each experience. Whether you're an avid adventurer or simply dreaming of your next big thrill, this episode is your gateway to exploring the best that Asia has to offer. [Note: For the most immersive experience and detailed guides on how to embark on these adventures yourself, check out reputable travel and
Fri, May 31, 2024
CHINA: Four Big Cities & One Forbidden (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, my daughter and I visit four big cities in China: Hong Kong, Ningbo, Shanghai and Beijing. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/037-china/
S12 E323 · Tue, May 28, 2024
323 CYPRUS: Had Five Minutes to Leave When Turkey Invaded
In this episode, we talk about the ghost town of Varosha on the northern coast of Cyprus. Once a bustling tourist hotspot, Varosha was abandoned in 1974 when the Turkish military invaded the island after a coup attempt aimed at uniting Cyprus with Greece. Elina, a proud Cypriot, shares her personal story of fleeing Varosha with her family when she was just four years old, given only five minutes to pack their belongings. I learn about the dramatic events of 1974 that led to Varosha's abandonment and the division of Cyprus. Elina vividly recalls the knock on the door and the heart-breaking decision her family had to make, leaving everything behind. Varosha's current state, sealed off for over 40 years, is a stark reminder of the island's ongoing conflict. I explore the recent efforts to open parts of Varosha to the public, which have sparked international debates and criticisms. We also talk about t he movie "Smuggling Hendrix," a comedic take on the absurdity of Cyprus's division, is discussed. Elina shares heart-warming stories of her father's efforts to preserve his village and foster unity between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. The episode also touches on the struggles of migrants seeking refuge in Cyprus, highlighting the island's ongoing humanitarian challenges. <span class= "TextRun SCXW247510268 BCX0" lang="EN-GB
S12 E322 · Sat, May 25, 2024
322 TOKYO: The 7 Must-See Wonders
Join me in this VAGABOND SHORT episode, where I take you on a quick tour of Tokyo, offering my top recommendations for must-see and must-do experiences in the city. 7. Tsukiji Fish Market: Indulge your senses at Tsukiji Fish Market, a paradise for seafood lovers. Dive into the chaos guided by neon signs and enthusiastic vendors. Experience a culinary adventure where every bite is a flavour crescendo. 6. Meiji Shrine: Escape the urban buzz at Meiji Shrine, surrounded by ancient cedar trees. Participate in traditional rituals and immerse yourself in the spiritual embrace of Japanese culture. 5. Ueno Park and Zoo: Take a breather in Ueno Park, an urban oasis offering picturesque beauty and playful charm. Every step is a brushstroke on Tokyo's canvas of natural wonders. 4. Tokyo Tower: Ascend Tokyo Tower for spectacular views of the city skyline. Experience the dynamic heartbeat of Tokyo from its iconic symbol. <span class= "TextRun SCXW11519
Fri, May 24, 2024
MAINE, USA: Blueberries and Pickled Sea Snails (Flashback)
Join me in Maine, USA for a chilled-paced leg of my epic road trip across America. In this episode, I get a health scare in Portsmouth before meeting my Couchsurfing host, Ben, at his blueberry farm in Maine. Also, I eat pickled wrinkles (as gross as it sounds) and end up pondering on a rock at Acadia National Park. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/190-maine-blueberries-and-pickled-sea-snails/
S12 E321 · Tue, May 21, 2024
321 CYPRUS: Walking the Green Line – Touring the Buffer Zone
Join me for a captivating journey with Eleni Ellinas, a dedicated tour guide and coach who brings the rich, often untold stories of Cyprus to life. In this episode, we explore the Green Line in Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world, and delve into Eleni's unique perspective. Discover the historical and cultural heart of Cyprus, from the Venetian-built old city to the haunting remnants of the buffer zone. Eleni shares her hopes for reunification and the enduring spirit of the Cypriot people. She’s Greek Cypriot but most of all simply “Cypriot.” Stay tuned for more on the Turkish invasion of 1974 and the abandoned ghost town of Varosha in the next episode. LINKS: Instagram: @walk_talk_cyprus Facebook: Walk Talk Cyprus WhatsApp: +35799444531
S12 E320 · Sat, May 18, 2024
320 BEACHES: The World's Top 7 Best Beaches
Embark on a journey with The Radio Vagabond, Palle Bo, as we explore the Top 7 World's Best Beaches. From the secluded sands of Railay Beach in Thailand to the pristine shores of Whitehaven Beach in Australia, discover what makes these destinations a must-visit for every traveler. Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand. A hidden paradise accessible only by boat. Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii, USA. Famous for its breathtaking sunsets. Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue, Seychelles. Renowned for its pink sands. Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos. Crystal clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. <span lang="EN-GB" style= "font-family: 'Cali
Fri, May 17, 2024
SOUTH AFRICA: Road Trip from Port Elizabeth to Durban (Flashback)
Join me in this Radio Vagabond podcast where I go on an epic road trip across beautiful South Africa. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/164-journey-south-african-road-trip-from-pe-to-durban/
S12 E319 · Tue, May 14, 2024
319 CYPRUS: Mountains, Border Crossing, and a Forbidden Love Story
Join me on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes and rich history of Cyprus. From the charming Christy’s Palace Hotel to the divided streets of Nicosia, we'll uncover the island's tumultuous past and vibrant present. Together, we'll explore rugged mountains, cross borders, and unravel a tale of forbidden love that echoes through the ages. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply seeking a slice of Mediterranean paradise, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for an immersive experience that will leave you longing to explore the sun-drenched shores and storied landscapes of Cyprus. If you go to Cyprus and decide to go to the mountains, I highly recommend Christy’s Palace Hotel in Pedoulas. You can find it on Hotels25.com .
S12 E318 · Sat, May 11, 2024
318 BANGKOK: The Top 7 Must-See Sights
In this episode, I take you on a whirlwind tour of Bangkok's top sights. From majestic temples to vibrant markets, discover the 7 must-see attractions that make Bangkok an enchanting destination. Dive deeper into each spot in this episode. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) - Marvel at the colossal reclining Buddha and indulge in a traditional Thai massage. Chao Phraya River Cruise - Glide along the river and enjoy breath-taking views of the city skyline. Jim Thompson House - Discover the enigmatic home of the silk tycoon and unleash your inner sleuth. Khaosan Road - Immerse yourself in Bangkok's vibrant nightlife and experience the eclectic vibe. Chatuchak Weekend Market - Explore the sprawling market with over 8,000 stalls and embrace the vibrant atmosphere. <span lang="EN-GB" style= "font-size: 12.0pt;
Fri, May 10, 2024
KATHMANDU, NEPAL: Nature, Massacre, Monkeys and Friendly People (Flashback)
Join me as we visit the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu and go exploring the major sights. We also go to the Royal Palace and learn about the history of the Royal Massacre, where the Crown Prince killed his family in 2001. And then I make new friends and meet a thousand monkeys. See pictures and read blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/225-nepal/
S12 E317 · Thu, May 09, 2024
317 INTERVIEW: Globetrotter Ric Gazarian and Extraordinary Travel Festival 2024
In this captivating episode, join me as I dive into the world of extraordinary travel with Ric Gazarian, the mastermind behind the Extraordinary Travel Festival. From country counting adventures to micro-nation diplomacy, we explore the diverse tapestry of human experience through the lens of travel. Discover inspiring stories, fascinating personalities, and the transformative power of exploration. Don't miss out on the journey. Links: Festival: ExtraordinaryTravelFest.com <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW94862576 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyl
S12 E316 · Tue, May 07, 2024
316 CYPRUS: Stunning Nature and Making Friends
Join me as I embark on a journey through Cyprus, a Mediterranean gem boasting rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From fascinating facts about the island to exploring the charming city of Paphos, where ancient ruins meet modern allure, and encountering unique spots like the shipwreck at Oniro By The Sea , this episode is a delightful blend of discovery and adventure. Plus, meet fellow traveller Cindy Sheahan and discover the exhilarating Caledonian Falls Trail. Stay tuned for more insights and stories from Cyprus. LINKS: See the article in The New York Times , where Cindy is interviewed about how to find love abroad. Blog: " Posts from a Flashpacker " Facebook Instagram
S12 E315 · Sat, May 04, 2024
315 ROME: Top 7 Things to See in the Italian Capital
Join me in this VAGABOND SHORT episode, where I whisk you away on a whirlwind tour of Rome, unveiling its timeless allure and hidden treasures. 7. Roman Forum: Wander through the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, where the past comes to life amidst broken columns and crumbling temples. It's a journey through time you won't soon forget. 6. Piazza Navona: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Navona, where bustling cafes and street performers captivate your senses. It's the perfect place to soak in the essence of Roman life. 5. Spanish Steps: Take a moment to relax on the Spanish Steps, a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city below. 4. Trevi Fountain: Make a wish at the iconic Trevi Fountain, where tossing a coin guarantees your return to Rome. Let the sound of cascading water transport you to a realm of myth and magic. 3.The Pantheon: Behold the architectural marvel of the Pantheon, a 2000-year-old temple dedicated to the gods. Stand beneath its dome and witness the interplay of light and shadow. 2. The Colosseum: Step into ancient history at the grand Colosseum, where echoes of gladiator battles still resonate. Marvel at its colossal arches and imagine the roar of the crowd. 1. Vatican City: Explore the smallest country in the world, home to the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike. Links and Resources: <span lang="EN-GB" style= "font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;" xml:
Fri, May 03, 2024
VERMONT, USA: Ice Cream in Green Mountains (Flashback)
In this podcast of The Radio Vagabond, I meet Ben and hike the gorgeous Mount Washington. See pictures and read the blog post here: www.theradiovagabond.com/192-vermont-ice-cream-in-green-mountains/
S12 E314 · Thu, May 02, 2024
314 INTERVIEW: A Bad-ass Young Traveller Hitchhiking Across the Atlantic
In this episode, you can meet Enora Kriegel, a cool 22-year-old adventurer who hitchhiked across the Atlantic Ocean by sailboat, explored crisis-ridden Venezuela. She did all of that without flying, and encountered extreme budget travellers and unique cycling companions. Enora's stories inspire us to embrace adventure and simplicity in travel. Listen for tales of daring exploration and the warmth of human connection.
S12 E313 · Sun, April 28, 2024
AUSTRALIA: A Perfect Day in Melbourne with a Local
Join me as I explore Melbourne, Australia, in a day packed with local culture, cuisine, and companionship courtesy of my Couchsurfing host, Jon. Our journey starts off at the bustling Melbourne Skydeck, giving us panoramic views of the city. We then visit the iconic Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes before retreating to the serene Royal Botanic Gardens. Along the way, Jon shares his personal stories of friendship and connections made through Couchsurfing. This episode not only highlights the beauty and vibrancy of Melbourne but also delves into how travel can forge deep, personal connections.
S12 E312 · Sat, April 27, 2024
312 TOURIST SCAMS: What to be Aware of and How to Avoid them (Part 1)
Welcome to this episode of Vagabond Shorts, where I switch gears from our usual travel tales to discuss tourist scams and how to avoid them. This isn’t about casting a shadow over the beautiful places I’ve visited but sharing insider tips to ensure your travels are smooth and scam-free. With 8 years of constant travel, I’ve encountered my fair share of scams, from overpriced taxis to disappearing tours. Join me with your drink of choice as we delve into these scams, sharing do’s and don'ts and keeping our sense of humor alive. It’s about staying savvy, not scared, and turning these experiences into memorable stories. Let’s learn to outsmart the tricksters and enjoy our adventures to the fullest. The Taxi Overcharge has caught me off guard more than once. My tip? Always agree on a fare before starting your journey or insist on using the meter, and keep an eye on your route via your phone. The Distract and Grab or The Spill on Your Clothes scam relies on distraction. Someone spills something on you, offers to clean it up, and while you're distracted, an accomplice swipes your valuables. The key to avoiding this? Stay alert and keep your belongings secure. The Tale of the Disappearing Act of the Not-So-Magical Tours targets our desire to explore hidden spots. These offers often sound too good to be true because they are. My advice is to approach such deals with skepticism, do thorough research, check reviews, and prefer booking through reliable sources. I'm curious about your experiences with scams. Have you ever been impressed by the cunning of a scam or managed to outwit one yourself? Share your tales in the comments. Also, let me know if you're interested in more insights on navigating travel scams. <p class="MsoNormal" sty
S12 E311 · Tue, April 23, 2024
311 AUSTRALIA: Leaving Sydney and Starting Cruise to New Zealand
In this episode, join me, Palle Bo, and my intrepid travel companion, Cynthia Globe, as we embark on an extraordinary voyage departing from Sydney aboard the magnificent Norwegian Spirit cruise ship enroute to New Zealand. Together, we traverse the stunning landscapes of Australia, making captivating stops at destinations like Eden, Tasmania, and Melbourne. Immerse yourself in the rich history of each port of call, from the maritime heritage of Eden to the quaint charm of Penguin, home to the adorable little penguins. Throughout our journey, I share intriguing insights into the Norwegian Spirit, a marvel of the seas offering an array of indulgent amenities and entertainment options. Come along with me as I recount our adventures, encounters, and discoveries, and let the allure of the open ocean ignite your wanderlust. Plus, don't miss the chance to learn about the upcoming Nomad Cruise from Vancouver to Tokyo, where you can join a vibrant community of fellow travellers for an unforgettable voyage.
S12 E310 · Sat, April 20, 2024
310 SYDNEY: Top 7 Must-See Landmarks That Will Blow Your Mind
Dive into the heart of Sydney with The Radio Vagabond as we explore the city's top 7 must-see attractions. From the serene bayside charm of Watsons Bay to the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, this episode is your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of Sydney. Watsons Bay: Discover the tranquil beauty of Watsons Bay, known for its stunning harbor views and delicious seafood. More info here. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney: Wander through the lush landscapes of the Royal Botanic Garden, a green oasis in the city's heart. Visit Royal Botanic Garden for more details. The Queen Victoria Building: Step back in time at the QVB, a haven for history buffs and shopping enthusiasts alike. Find out more here . Blue Mountains National Park: Escape to the breathtaking Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn more here . Bondi Beach: Experience the iconic Bondi Beach, a hotspot for surfers and beach lovers. More information here. Sydney Opera House: Marvel at the architectural brilliance of the Sydney Opera House. Visit Sydney Opera House for details. Sydney Harbour Bridge: Conquer the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an exhila
Fri, April 19, 2024
NORTH CAROLINA: Asheville and The Sit-In Movement in Greensboro (Flashback)
I got to Asheville and met a friend, that I made in Chiang Mai, and her sister. We had some outstanding food and crashed a party at a bankers convention. Back in Greensboro, I went to the International Civil Rights Center and Museum and bumped into the CEO, John L. Swaine. He tells me the story of how the Sit-In Movement started by four students right here and changed history all over the USA. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/091-north-carolina/
S12 E309 · Tue, April 16, 2024
309 AUSTRALIA: Blue Mountains and Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
In this episode, I embark on an adventure through the stunning Blue Mountains and conquer the thrilling Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb in Australia. Joined by my friend Cynthia, we explore the serene natural beauty of the Blue Mountains, staying at the historic Clarendon Guesthouse and Theatre and discovering the legendary Three Sisters rock formation. We then take on the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb , an unforgettable experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. I even get to "jump off the bridge" at the end!
S12 E308 · Sat, April 13, 2024
308 CALIFORNIA, USA: Exploring the Pacific Coast Highway
Welcome to my Pacific Coast Highway adventure! Join me on this mesmerizing journey as we explore the iconic route stretching from Los Angeles to Mendocino. Here's a breakdown of each day's highlights: · Day 1: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (150 km/93 miles) : Explore the glamour of LA before heading to Santa Barbara, the American Riviera, known for its Mediterranean vibes and historical landmarks. · Day 2: Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo (150 km/93 miles) : Journey through Solvang, a Danish village, before reaching San Luis Obispo, blending old-world charm with modern energy. <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style= "text-indent: -18
Fri, April 12, 2024
BOSTON, USA: Cheers from The Radio Vagabond (Flashback)
In this podcast of The Radio Vagabond, I visit a famous Cheers Bar and walk The Freedom Trail in Boston. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/186-boston/
S12 E307 · Tue, April 09, 2024
307 SYDNEY: Cricket is Such a Big Deal Here
In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey through the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), where history and sport converge to create a truly unforgettable experience. Members Pavilion and Ladies Pavilion: Delve into the rich history and timeless charm of the Members Pavilion and Ladies Pavilion, two architectural gems that stand as guardians of cricketing tradition. Richie Benaud Tribute: Pay homage to cricketing legend Richie Benaud, whose enduring legacy is celebrated by fans at the SCG through a unique and heartfelt tribute. Modern Facets: Experience the blend of tradition and innovation as we explore the modern amenities and thrilling matches that define the SCG as a premier sports venue. Links: Sydney Cricket Ground Official Website <li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW145508420 BCX0" role="listitem" data-leveltext="-" data-font="Calibri" data-listid="4" data
S12 E306 · Sat, April 06, 2024
306 SINGAPORE: Top 7 Things to See and Do in Singapore
In this VAGABOND SHORT episode, I’ll take you on a fascinating journey to Singapore, providing my top recommendations for the must-see and must-do experiences in this vibrant Asian city-state. 1. Marina Bay Sands Skypark Experience breathtaking views from the Marina Bay Sands Skypark, 57 floors up. <span style= "font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-languag
Fri, April 05, 2024
CARIBBEAN: Cruising in a Pandemic to Saint Lucia, Aruba & Curaçao (Flashback)
This week I’m going to take you to three different islands in the Caribbean. We will visit an independent UN nation Saint Lucia, then head over to two autonomous islands that are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/220-caribbean-cruising-in-a-pandemic-to-saint-lucia-aruba-curacao/
S12 E305 · Tue, April 02, 2024
305 SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: A Down-Under Dive into Aussie Slang, Opera, and Fireworks
In this episode, I take you on a vibrant journey through Sydney, Australia. I explore the iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge , immerse myself in the local culture and lingo, and even unravel the intriguing saga behind Hungry Jack's, the Australian counterpart of Burger King. From sipping beers at the Cruise Bar with breathtaking views to watching a captivating performance of "Amadeus" at the Opera House, I share my experiences with infectious enthusiasm. I also provide insights into Australian slang and greetings and recount the unforgettable experience of witnessing the legendary New Year's Eve fireworks in Sydney Harbour from the vantage point of a boat. Along the way, I share fascinating facts about Australia's geography, population, flag, and famous personalities. Overall, this episode is my delightful and informative exploration of Sydney's rich culture, history, and attractions.
S12 E304 · Sun, March 31, 2024
304 PARIS: Top 7 Secret Non-Touristy Spots in Paris
Hidden Gems of Paris: Top 7 Non-Touristy Things to See In this episode , we uncover the less-traveled paths and secret spots of Paris that offer a unique perspective on the city. Join us as we explore: 1. Canal Saint-Martin Discover the serene and picturesque Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th district, known for its tree-lined paths and iron footbridges. This spot is a favorite for strolls, picnics, and enjoys a vibrant scene of cafes and galleries. 2. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Venture into the hilly landscapes of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th district. With its stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and the Temple de la Sibylle, this park offers a blend of natu
S12 E303 · Sat, March 30, 2024
303 PARIS: The Top 7 Attractions You Can't Miss
Join me in this VAGABOND SHORT episode, where I take you on a quick tour of Paris, offering his top recommendations for must-see and must-do experiences in the city. Eiffel Tower: Get that essential selfie at the Eiffel Tower, an iconic yet colossal iron structure. If you decide to ascend, prepare for long lines but a rewarding view from the top. At night, the tower transforms into a sparkling beacon, a highlight in the city of love. Louvre: Venture to the Louvre, an immense art museum blending historical grandeur with modern architecture, like the striking glass pyramid. The main attraction? The Mona Lisa, smaller than expected but as captivating as her reputation suggests. Notre-Dame Cathedral: Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a symbol of resilience and history. Despite the 2019 fire and ongoing restoration, its majestic facade and historical significance remain awe-inspiring. The full reopening is set for late 2024, but the exterior still presents an imposing and storied sight. Montmartre: Explore Montmartre, a neighborhood brimming with bohemian charm and artistic history. Once home to Picasso and Van Gogh, its cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit area, where every corner tells a story. Catacombs: Explore the eerie and fascinating Catacombs of Paris. Walk through underground tunnels lined with the bones of over six million people, creating a chilling yet artistic atmosphere. It's a unique and unforgettable journey into the city's historical underworld. Seine River Cruise: Enjoy a tranquil yet exciting Seine River Cruise. It's a must-do tourist activity that offers a fresh perspective of Paris, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame from the water. The cruise, complete with interesting commentary, makes for a relaxing and educational experience. The Champs-Élysées: Stroll down the Champs-Élysées, a boulevard of elegance and luxury, leading to the imposing Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy people-watching, high-end shopping, and cafes. Climbing the Arc de Triomphe offers panoramic views of Paris, combining glamour with historical grandeur.
Fri, March 29, 2024
POLAND: He’s an Englishman in Warsaw (Flashback)
Come along when I visit Warsaw, Poland. I take a walk in the rebuilt Old Town; I meet an English expat and then I need to go to the hospital. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/181-an-englishman-in-warsaw/
Bonus · Thu, March 28, 2024
VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now, in Buenos Aires – Hitting the Road (and Sea) Again
Here’s an update on my vagabond life, including: Farewell to 3 months in Buenos Aires and preparing for an 18-day cruise to Italy with stops in Rio, Canary Islands, Barcelona, and Marseille. Kicking off a new season of The Radio Vagabond podcast with recent episodes from Bali, Rio, Rwanda, Burundi, and upcoming Sydney and New Zealand cruise. Launching "Vagabond Shorts" – 10-minute travel episodes every weekend covering Paris, London, New York, Sydney, Pacific Coast Highway road trip, tourist scams, best beaches, and more. Assembling a team including video producers and assistant to support my ramped up weekly content schedule. Upcoming travel plans: Italy, finally visiting Istanbul, Lebanon, group tour of Syria, conventions in Northern Spain and then Kazakhstan, potential detours through Central Asian 'Stans. Second half of 2023: Puerto Rico, Eastern Canada, Vancouver-Alaska - Japan cruise, Thailand, and more to be determined. Though bittersweet to leave Buenos Aires, the endless vagabond spirit is calling to new horizons. Links: The Radio Vagabond website ( https://radiovagabond.com ) YouTube ( https://www.youtube.com/@theradiovagabond ) Instagram ( https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond )
S12 E302 · Tue, March 26, 2024
302 BURUNDI: A Great Visit to the World’s Poorest Country
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Africa as we explore the contrasting landscapes, cultures, and resilience of Rwanda and Burundi. Discover the remarkable progress of Rwanda alongside the challenges and enduring hope found in Burundi, all while embracing the beauty of diversity and unity. Connect with Gabriel Ndikumana, my amazing Burundi guide, at: Website: YourBurundiGuides.com Instagram: @burundiguides Facebook page: Burundi Guides WhatsApp: +257 69 52 87 84
S12 E301 · Sun, March 24, 2024
301 BUENOS AIRES: Non-Touristy Spots You've Never Heard Of
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, join Palle Bo as he uncovers Buenos Aires' hidden gems. We explore non-touristy spots that reveal the city's true character: The Cabildo : A historic building with a museum, showcasing Argentina's colonial past. More about The Cabildo . Galería Güemes : An architectural marvel, once home to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Don't miss the rooftop views. Discover Galería Güemes Parque El Rosedal: <span l
S12 E300 · Sat, March 23, 2024
300 BUENOS AIRES: Top 7 Must-See Attractions
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we embark on a journey to Buenos Aires, Argentina's vibrant capital. Discover the heart and soul of this city through its top 7 attractions: La Boca: Immerse yourself in the vivid colours and lively tango culture of La Boca. Recoleta Cemetery: Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Recoleta Cemetery. San Telmo Market: Delight in the bustling atmosphere of San Telmo Market, known for its unique antiques and vibrant street life. Steak Dinner: Savour the flavours of Buenos Aires with a classic Argentine steak dinner. Teatro Colón: Marvel at the exquisite architecture and acoustics of Teatro Colón, a world-class opera house. Plaza de Mayo: Visit the historic and politically significant Plaza de Mayo. Palermo Soho: Conclude your tour in Palermo Soho, a neighbourhood brimming with trendy nightlife, chic boutiques, and cosy cafes. Experience the dynamic culture, history, and flavours of Buenos Aires with The Radio Vagabond.
Fri, March 22, 2024
PHILLIPPINES: Slumming in Manila (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, join me as I face challenges before arriving in Manila in the Philippines. I visited China Town, drove in chaotic traffic and mixed cement in the slum for houses to withstand typhoons. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/010-philippines-1/
S12 E299 · Tue, March 19, 2024
299 RWANDA: Genocide and Hiking the Thousand Hills
In this episode, we embark on a mesmerizing journey through Rwanda, a land of natural wonders and poignant history. Our exploration begins with an in-depth look at Rwanda's unique climate, characterized by eternal spring, gentle breezes, and invigorating showers. We delve into the serene atmosphere of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a solemn site of remembrance that pays tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide. From there, we navigate through the dark chapters of Rwanda's past, reflecting on the causes and aftermath of the tragic events. Our adventure takes us hiking through the picturesque landscapes of the Thousand Hills, where we uncover hidden gems and breath-taking vistas. Finally, we visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a beacon of hope for the endangered mountain gorillas. Join us as we discover the beauty, resilience, and enduring hope of Rwanda. See the blog post here . Kigali Genocide Memorial Thousand Hills Hiking Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund <span lang="EN-GB" style= "color: windowtext; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; text-decoration: none;
S12 E298 · Sat, March 16, 2024
298 LONDON: Top 7 Must-See Attractions in the British Capital
Join Palle Bo as he takes a fresh look at London's most iconic landmarks in this episode of The Radio Vagabond. "Exploring London's Classic 7: Beyond the Postcard Views" goes beyond the typical tourist experience, delving into the unique aspects and lesser-known stories of each attraction. From historical insights to modern-day marvels, this episode invites listeners to see London's famous sights through a new lens.
Fri, March 15, 2024
DUBAI: Meeting The Culture in an over-the-top City (Flashback)
When visiting any country or city to know more about its culture, I find it’s always better to visit the country’s more rural areas and to talk with ordinary people living their daily lives. That’s what I did during my trip to Duba i, where I went to the local market and wandered through the old city, which used to be the city’s centre. I also got to talk with Tracy, a local Muslim woman from England who married an Emirati. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/dubai-culture/
S12 E297 · Tue, March 12, 2024
297 RWANDA: Rising from the Ashes – a Remarkable Rebirth
We published the Danish version here – by mistake. Here is the English version. ____________________ Join me on The Radio Vagabond as we explore Rwanda's captivating journey of resilience and renewal. From its surprising safety rankings to its innovative environmental initiatives, we uncover the untold stories behind this remarkable nation. Discover Rwanda's commitment to community, environmental stewardship, and political landscape, all while savouring its rich coffee culture and embracing its history with reverence. Don't miss out on this eye-opening adventu re. See pictures and read the blog post .
S12 E297 · Tue, March 12, 2024
297 RWANDA: Rising from the Ashes – a Remarkable Rebirth
Join me on The Radio Vagabond as we explore Rwanda's captivating journey of resilience and renewal. From its surprising safety rankings to its innovative environmental initiatives, we uncover the untold stories behind this remarkable nation. Discover Rwanda's commitment to community, environmental stewardship, and political landscape, all while savouring its rich coffee culture and embracing its history with reverence. Don't miss out on this eye-opening adventure . See pictures and read the blog post .
S12 E296 · Fri, March 08, 2024
296 NEW YORK: Top 7 Stops for Your Ultimate Big Apple Adventure
Join me in this VAGABOND SHORT episode, where I take you on a quick tour of New York City, offering my top recommendations for must-see and must-do experiences in the city. 1. Times Square - The Neon Wonderland: Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Times Square, where neon lights guide you through a kaleidoscope of colours and energy. 2. Central Park - Nature in the Concrete Jungle: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a stroll through Central Park, a serene oasis amidst skyscrapers. 3. Statue of Liberty - Lady Liberty's Grand Welcome: Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, standing tall in New York Harbour. 4. One World Trade Center and 9/11 Ground Zero Museum - Standing Tall in Remembrance: Stand in awe at One World Trade Center and honour the lives lost at the 9/11 Ground Zero Museum, symbols of resilience and remembrance. 5. Broadway - Where Every Moment is a Stage: Experience the magic of Broadway, where the city's heartbeat has a musical rhythm, and every emotion is felt. 6. Explore MoMA, the Heartbeat of New York's Creativity. G ive your soul a treat and dive into the art that has shaped the world. 7. Chinatown and Little Italy - A Culinary Carnival: Indulge in a culinary adventure in Chinatown and Little Italy, where cultures collide and taste buds embark on a global journey. For more background information on the top tourist attractions in New York City, I recommend checking out the following resources: Times Square Central Park Statue of Liberty One World Trade Center 9/11 Ground Zero Museum Broadway <a href= "https://
Fri, March 08, 2024
TAIWAN: “You Want a A Beer, Bro?” (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond as I arrive in Taipei, Taiwan where I face many bumps along the way. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/20-taipei/
S12 E295 · Tue, March 05, 2024
295 RIO DE JANEIRO: Hang Gliding over Rio
In this episode, get ready to feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of adventure as we delve into the exhilarating world of hang gliding over Rio de Janeiro . Join me as I take you on a journey through the skies of one of the world's most iconic cities. From the adrenaline rush of take-off to the serene beauty of gliding through the clouds, this episode will leave you inspired to embark on your own sky-high adventure. Discover the best spots to take off, essential safety tips, and hear first-hand accounts of the breath-taking views and unforgettable experiences that await you in Rio's boundless skies.
S12 E294 · Sat, March 02, 2024
294 RIO DE JANEIRO: Top 7 Must-Visit Attractions for the Ultimate Experience
Discover the vibrant wonders of Rio de Janeiro with me on The Radio Vagabond! In this episode, we explore the top 7 things to see and do in Rio: 1. Christ the Redeemer: Embrace the panoramic views from Corcovado Mountain. 2. Sugarloaf Mountain: Experience cinematic vistas and spy-worthy thrills. 3. Copacabana Beach: Dive into a Brazilian beach fiesta with sun, sand, and samba beats. 4. Ipanema: Where Bossa Nova meets bikinis – a lifestyle by the ocean's sway. 5. Tijuca National Park: Nature's gym for the adventurous soul amidst urban rainforests. <span class="EOP
Fri, March 01, 2024
SLOVAKIA: Life in a hostel i “Partyslava” (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I visited Bratislava and worried how he would stay in a hostel with 20-something backpackers. I also had a chat with one of the locals about the Soviet times. See pictures and read the blog post here:https://www.theradiovagabond.com/bratislava/
S12 E293 · Tue, February 27, 2024
293 RIO DE JANEIRO: A City Alive with Passion and Resilience
In this episode, we start at the iconic Maracanã Stadium, the beating heart of Brazil's football culture, sets the stage for an exploration into the soul of Rio de Janeiro. The Maracanã Stadium stands as an emblem of Brazil's passion for football, a colossal structure nestled amidst the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro. Its storied history includes hosting iconic matches, such as Brazil's devastating loss in the 1950 World Cup final and Pele's memorable goals. With a seating capacity of over 78,000, it serves as a testament to the nation's enduring love affair with the beautiful game. As we step into this hallowed ground, we are enveloped by the echoes of cheers and chants, feeling the pulse of a city that breathes football. Then we visit a favela, where I have a captivating chat with Adam Powers Newman, a true force in the favela community of Rio de Janeiro. Adam shares his passion for breaking down the barriers , allowing people to truly connect with these vibrant neighbourhoods. We dive deep into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the favelas, exploring initiatives like the ecological park and co-living co-working spaces. Join us as we <a class="Hyperlink SCXW134685214 BCX0" href= "https://favelaexperience.webflow.i
S12 E292 · Sat, February 24, 2024
292 BALI: Top 7 Attractions You Need to Visit in Bali
Hey travel enthusiasts! Join me on The Radio Vagabond as we explore the enchanting island of Bali. From roaming with monkeys in the Ubud Monkey Forest to witnessing the stunning sunsets at Uluwatu Temple, we're uncovering the top 7 must-visit spots in Bali. Dive into the history at the USAT Liberty Shipwreck and swing high above the jungle at Bali Swing! Listen to the latest episode for a full guide to these breathtaking attractions and start planning your Bali adventure.
Fri, February 23, 2024
BOSTON: The Radio Vagabond Hunting Good Vibes (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond where I pick up where I left off in Czechia before going to the Atlantic to meet up with my friend Brianna. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/185-boston/
S12 E291 · Tue, February 20, 2024
291 BALI: Hidden Rituals in a Once-in-a-Decade Hindu Ceremony
Breaking Tradition: I Gained Access to Bali's Off-Limits Hindu Ritual My meeting with Wayan, a local driver and fisherman in the heart of Bali, revealed a world of hidden rituals and traditions, unlike anything I’d ever imagined. After we zipped through the vibrant streets on scooters, Wayan's tales of traditions, miraculous healing experiences, and ancient rites of sacrifice left me spellbound. But this was just the beginning of my journey into the enchanting Balinese culture and spirituality. My special guest is Wayan Wayan, a native of Bali, brings a wealth of local knowledge and first-hand experience to explore the island's hidden rituals and traditions. His deep-rooted connection to Bali's spiritual practices and cultural customs offers a captivating insight into the lesser-known aspects of the island's heritage. With Wayan's guidance, you can gain a deeper understanding of the once-in-a-decade Hindu ceremony and the significance they hold within the community. Through his engaging storytelling and personal encounters, Wayan provides a genuine and authentic portrayal of the rich tapestry of traditions that define Balinese culture, making him an invaluable companion on this journey of discovery. Discover Jero Manku's Healing Abilities In an impressive personal story , Wayan talks about the local healer, Jero Manku. He’s a revered spiritual leader known for his miraculous healing abilities. Wayan's firsthand experience with Jero Manku's healing powers against established medical practices offers listeners a different understanding of health solutions. This uncovers the power of alternative medicine, showcasing the impact of spirituality on physical well-being in Balinese society. In this episode, we will: Uncover Bali's hidden rituals and traditions to gain a deeper understanding of its rich cultural heritage. Explore the fascinating Balinese Hindu ceremonies and beliefs to broaden your spiritual knowledge and cultural awareness. Discover Jero Manku's healing abilities and alternative medicine for a unique perspective on
Fri, February 16, 2024
BALI: Fivelements Resort (Flashback)
Before the next season of The Radio Vagabond, I’m going to give you an episode from a unique luxurious place: Fivelements Retreat Bali. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/184-fivelements-bali/
Fri, February 09, 2024
NOMAD CRUISE: Meet 249 Nomads. Where’s Wally? (Flashback)
Welcome to the third and final instalment of my Nomad Cruise adventure, where I hopped aboard the Horizon cruise ship and sailed from Spain to Greece for 9 days with a bunch of incredibly talented digital nomads. If you haven’t already listened to Part I and II then go back and do so before continuing. Let’s jump back aboard the Horizon! See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/170-journey-meet-249-nomads-wheres-wally/
Fri, February 02, 2024
SERBIA: Celebrating in Belgrade (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond where I travel to Serbia and go on a trip to Novi Sad with three Australian backpackers and my Airbnb host Miloš. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/004-serbia/
Fri, January 26, 2024
MOROCCO: Visa Hunting in Rabat (Flashback)
With my travel buddy, Edvard, I’m moving on the train from Fez to Rabat in Morocco. Here, I talk to him so you can get to know the guy I will be travelling with for a while in Africa. You can also join us as we start our hunt for visas to many African countries. A hunt that turns out not to be without challenges. See pictures and read the blog post here: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/107-rabat/
Fri, December 22, 2023
TEXAS: Literally My First Rodeo (Flashback)
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to be a cowboy and get immersed in Texan culture you need to take a trip to Tejas Rodeo just outside of San Antonio. I was lucky enough to go backstage to learn about this fascinating sport from a bull-riding legend Yancey James. See pictures and read the blog post here .
S11 E290 · Tue, December 19, 2023
290 UKRAINE: Heart-breaking Visits to Bucha and Lviv
Join us on a profound journey in the latest episode of The Radio Vagabond, as we conclude the NomadMania educational tour of Ukraine. Our adventure begins in the suburb of Irpin, near Kyiv, where echoes of past conflicts and strategic defences tell a story of resilience and survival. The remains of a crucial bridge, destroyed to halt the advance of Russian forces, mark the stark reality of war. As we move to Bucha, the ambiance shifts dramatically. Orest Zub, our guide and organizer, narrates the transition from Irpin to Bucha, underscoring the distinct stories each town holds within the larger narrative of the conflict. Bucha, a town tragically transformed from a peaceful suburb to a witness of war atrocities, presents a somber picture of the invasion's impact. Here, we confront the aftermath of occupation and the brutal reality of civilians caught in the crossfire. The silent streets of Bucha, once bustling with life, now bear witness to the violence that swept through the town. Orest shares the harrowing details of civilian casualties, with about 600 local residents reported killed. The Church of St. Andrew stands as a poignant memorial, with a mass grave and commemorations for each victim, including children tragically caught in the violence. Inside the Church of St. Andrew, a heart-wrenching photo exhibition brings the tragedy of Bucha into sharp focus. Images of abandoned bicycles, a loyal dog beside its fallen owner, and lifeless hands clutching groceries paint a vivid picture of the town's ordeal. These photographs, capturing moments of untold stories and lives cut short, emphasize the need for accountability and justice on a global stage. Our journey continues to Lviv, where the atmosphere is a blend of anticipation and reflection. The city bustles with life, offering a stark contrast to the war-torn regions we've visited. The visit to a military cemetery in Lviv becomes a powerful moment of contemplation. Here, we walk amongst the graves of fallen soldiers, each marked with a photo, reminding us of the personal cost of war. Orest Zub explains the significance of these photographs, highlighting the youth and unfulfilled potential of those who lost their lives. On the last night, we gather for a unique sharing session. Travelers from diverse backgrounds, including Gustav Rosted, Max Layerer, Per Besson, Mette Ehlers Mikkelsen, Alex Rivera, Khadija Musa, Ed Hotchkiss, Kim Borup Frederiksen, Lee Sandberg, Tony Wang, Allan Have Larsen and Petro Marais, share their reflections on the Uk
Fri, December 15, 2023
CZECH REPUBLIC: Finding My Peace in a Bohemian Paradise (Flashback)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond where I visit the northern part of Czech Republic called the LIberec Region, also known as Bohemian Paradise. See pictures and read the blog post here .
Fri, December 08, 2023
USA: Danish Kringle is a Big Hit North of Chicago (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I visit Racine in Wisconsin, which is 75 miles north of Chicago. I also visited a Danish bakery and got a taste of the Americanized version of Denmark. See pictures and read the blog post here .
S11 E289 · Tue, December 05, 2023
289 UKRAINE: Corruption, Wealth, Destroyed Bridge, and Abandoned Cars
In this episode we’re in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, and the nearby suburb, Irpin. Join us as we delve into the untold stories of human resilience, the symbolism of abandoned cars. We also dive into the time before the war, when we visit the residence of the former pro-Russian president, Victor Yanukovych. His massive wealth and lavish lifestyle, starkly contrasts the ongoing struggles of the Ukrainian people, and his opulent estate stands as a testament to the depth of corruption under his regime and its detrimental impact on the nation. Yanukovych’s deposed leadership has ignited frustration and outrage among Ukrainians, illuminating the urgent need for transparency and accountability in governance. When the people of Ukraine finally found out about this lavishness and scale of the estate, it was viewed as a symbol of corruption and excess. And that sparked the Euromaidan Revolution. It's time to uncover the true impact of corruption and understand the true path to reconstruction. Blogpost: https://theradiovagabond.com/289-ukraine Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:0 0 - Introduction 00:37 - War Remnants in Kiev 02:19 - Facts About Kiev 05:02 - Personal Perspective on the War 09:06 - Visit to Yanukovych's Former Residence 18:07 - Background on Ukraine's pro-Western stance 19:46 - Evolution of the protests 22:23 - Violent crackdown and Yanukovych's downfall 24:48 - Zelensky's leadership and challenges 35:44 - Armed Forces Push Russians Out 36:36 - Rebuilding Residential Buildings 37:09 - Abandoned and Destroyed Cars
S11 E288 · Wed, November 29, 2023
288 UKRAINE: From Destruction to Determination and Stories of Hope in War-Torn Cities in Eastern Ukraine
Journey with me into the heart of eastern Ukraine, where resilience blooms amidst the scars of war. Join me and the NomadMania group as we uncover the unexpected twist that forever changed the lives of these brave communities. From the haunting remnants of Izyum to the courageous stories of survival in Kharkiv, witness the indomitable spirit of a city determined to defy the odds. But as the secrets unravel and the plot thickens, one question lingers: What surprising twist lies ahead for these resilient souls? In this episode, you will: Discover the inspiring resilience of Ukrainian communities impacted by war. Uncover the remarkable rebuilding efforts shaping the future of Kharkiv. Explore the rich cultural heritage waiting to be rediscovered in Kharkiv. Understand the challenges faced by the determined residents of Kharkiv. Learn about the impactful war's effects on Ukraine and its communities. See pictures and videos – and read the article on www.TheRadioVagabond.com/288-ukraine
S11 E287 · Tue, November 21, 2023
287 UKRAINE: Destroyed Village Close to the Frontline
In Ukraine, I uncover the devastating impact of war on individuals and communities. From harrowing tales of survival to the resilience of those providing aid, join me on a journey that reveals the true realities of conflict. But be warned, the shocking accounts I share will leave you questioning the fate of those caught in this ongoing crisis. Before this visit to war torn Ukraine, I crossed paths with Dimitri, a Ukrainian refugee in Kraków in Poland, near the Ukrainian border. As our conversation unfolded, I was thrust into a world of unimaginable suffering and despair, as Dimitri recounted the harrowing tales of his hometown and his life reduced to rubble. But it was the unexpected twist, a brutal war crime that Dimitri witnessed, that left me shaken to my core, grappling with a haunting question: How can this happen? If you're feeling a sense of helplessness and frustration as you try to understand the impact of war in Ukraine, then you are not alone! Despite your efforts to gain a deeper understanding, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the crisis and the countless stories of suffering. Your attempts to empathize may leave you feeling powerless to alleviate the pain and restore peace. But rest assured, your desire to increase awareness and empathy is a crucial step towards making a difference. In this episode, you will: Gain a deeper understanding of the human impact of war in Ukraine, shedding light on the stories and struggles of individuals and communities affected. Discover the remarkable resilience and strength of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity, inspiring and uplifting stories of hope and survival. Learn about the aid organizations working tirelessly to support and assist those affected by the war in Ukraine. Uncover the hidden dangers of landmines in Ukraine and the devastating effects they have on civilians, highlighting the urgent need for their removal and the importance of landmine awareness. Gain insight into the profound losses suffered by Ukraine due to the ongoing war, understanding the lasting impact on communities, infrastructure, and the country as a whole.
S11 E286 · Thu, November 16, 2023
286 UKRAINE: Going to a Country in a Full-Scale War
Discover the truth behind Ukraine's perceived danger and gain a new perspective on this captivating country. Are you curious about travelling to Ukraine but concerned about the ongoing conflict? In my latest podcast episode of The Radio Vagabond, I go on a NomadMania tour with a group of travellers and Ukrainian, Orest Zub, raising awareness about Ukraine's current situation. In the episode, we address the scepticism and concerns many travellers have about going to a country in a full-scale war. One of the most fascinating aspects of our conversations is learning about the experiences and motivations of those who choose to visit Ukraine during these challenging times. In this miniseries, we will discover a completely different side of the country. We will experience the resilience of the Ukrainian people, witness the beauty of the country, and learn about the rich history and culture that define this captivating nation – despite of everything going on right now. If you love delving into the heart of a destination and embracing its complexities, this episode is a must-listen. You'll gain a deeper understanding of Ukraine, address any concerns you may have, and be inspired to see the country in a different light. Please spread the word and help to raise awareness about Ukraine. Please share this post with your network and encourage them to listen to the episode. Together, we can challenge misconceptions and foster a deeper appreciation for the resilience and beauty of Ukraine. Episode post: www.theradiovagabond.com/286-ukraine
Fri, November 03, 2023
MAINE, USA: Blueberries, Blues & Beers (Flashback)
Join me on a homely visit to rustic Maine, USA. In this episode, I burn my eyes with hot chicken spice, put my foot in my mouth, and listen to “one hot chick” sing some blues rock in a garage before getting lost on a dark forest road. See pictures and read the blog post here .
Fri, October 27, 2023
BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA: We Should Never Forget Mostar (Flashback)
This week, we are going to Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina. A small city that was hit hard during the Bosnian war. You can still see the marks of the war, but it’s also a beautiful city with an iconic bridge. See pictures and read the blog post here .
Fri, October 20, 2023
TEXAS: Housesitting with Deadly Snakes and Noisy Roosters (Flashback)
Join me in my next podcast of The Radio Vagabond in Texas, where I "housesit" a charming country house in the middle of nowhere. See pictures and read the blog post here .
Fri, October 13, 2023
POLAND: A Giant Among Tour Guides in Kraków (Flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I’m in Krakow, Poland, and go on a Free Walking Tour with a very tall guide . See pictures and read the blog post here .
S10 E285 · Mon, October 09, 2023
285 MEXICO: Cenote Cavern Diving with Bats and Barbie
Does the idea of exploring hidden underwater worlds in the Yucatan Peninsula excite you? Have you been told to simply dive in regular ocean sites, only to feel unsatisfied and longing for something more? The pain of seeking adventure but settling for ordinary dives can leave you feeling unfulfilled and craving a truly extraordinary experience. It's time to break free from the mundane and dive into the mesmerizing cenotes of Dos Ojos, where you'll discover a whole new level of diving that will leave you in awe and wanting more. Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of cenotes with Divemaster Kasper Olesen on this exciting episode of The Radio Vagabond. In this episode, you will: Discover hidden wonders: Uncover the breath-taking beauty and hidden treasures of the Yucatan Peninsula's cenotes through scuba diving. Dive into history: Immerse yourself in cenotes' geological formation and cultural significance as you explore these fascinating underwater sinkholes. Explore Dos Ojos: Experience the thrill of diving in Dos Ojos, home to unique cenotes that offer unparalleled diving sites and unforgettable underwater adventures. Personalized diving experiences: Dive with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that Kasper from Halocline Divers provides tailored and safe diving experiences to enhance your exploration of the cenotes. Dive the Batcave Line: Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you navigate the mysterious Batcave Line, encountering stunning underwater landscapes – and emerge in a Batcave with hundreds of bats flying around. Dive the Barbie Line: Dive the spectacular Barbie Line and witness the awe-inspiring rock formations and otherworldly beauty hidden beneath the surface – and a Barbie with a crocodile taking a bite of her. Divemaster Kasper Olesen Kasper Olesen is an experienced diver and passionate explorer of underwater cave systems. With over 3000 logged dives, including 1700 guiding dives in caverns and caves in the Riviera Maya, Kasper brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to scuba divin
Fri, October 06, 2023
KRAKÓW, POLAND: Contrasting Emotions (Flashback)
S10 E284 · Tue, October 03, 2023
284 BOLIVIA: Amazing Mirror Effect at Uyuni Salt Flats
Today, we’re in Southern Bolivia for this leg of my South American journey in one of the most remarkable landscapes on earth. We’re in Uyuni Salt Flats. But we start at "The Train Cemetery" to see the first locomotives in Bolivia. This train graveyard, locally known as "Cementerio de Trenes," is a fascinating and eerie attraction located just outside the town of Uyuni in Bolivia. It is where old, rusting train locomotives and railcars from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been left to deteriorate and slowly decay in the harsh, arid landscape of the Bolivian Altiplano. And then we headed to one of Mother Earth's most surreal and breathtaking wonders: the Salar de Uyuni, also known as the Uyuni Salt Flats, in the southwest corner of Bolivia, near the crest of the Andes. I’m here in the rainy season, meaning a thin layer of water covers the salt crust. It creates a seamless reflection of the sky above, and the boundary between the heavens and the Earth becomes blurred as clouds, sunsets, and even bodies are duplicated on the salt flats' mirror-like surface. David and our driver set up a small table and some plastic chairs in the middle of all this. And with our feet in the salty water, we had a wonderful and surreal lunch. As night falls, the Salar de Uyuni takes on a new personality. The colours of the sunset were nothing less than spectacular. And by far the most amazing sunset I’ve ever witnessed in my life. Again, we went nuts with taking pictures and videos. Exploring the Salt Flats is an adventure like no other. It's a photographer's dream come true, where every angle reveals a new perspective. Make sure you go to the blog post for this episode and @Radiovagabond on Instagram to see the pictures. The next morning, we continued our trip to the southwestern part of the country, nearer to the border with Chile. First, we drive through “The High Flats” and then into the “High Andes” and Siloli Dessert . Being between 4500 and 4700 me
Fri, September 29, 2023
NORTH MACEDONIA: Lost in Translation (Flashback)
Join me in a city with (almost) more statues than people. At least it seems like that. I also get interviewed and it seemed like some things got lost in translation.
S10 E283 · Tue, September 26, 2023
283 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (7:7): Advice for Wannabe Digital Nomads
Discover the Insider's Guide to Thriving as a Digital Nomad Have you heard these myths about the digital nomad lifestyle? Myth #1: It's all about lounging on the beach with a laptop. Myth #2: You need to have a lot of money saved up to start. Myth #3: It's impossible to have a stable income. In this last episode of this miniseries, my guest experts will reveal the truth and provide valuable tips for aspiring digital nomads. You will discover the secrets of the digital nomad lifestyle in this riveting episode. As the seven experienced nomads share their tips and advice, you'll be on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting the next nugget of wisdom. Again, my special panel of digital nomads is Ranika Koneru, Shaun Busuttil, Nora Dunn, Chris Cerra, Gianni Bianchini, Jason Robinson, and Mr. Derek Smith. In the episode, you will hear there's no right or wrong way to be a digital nomad. Just listen to your gut feeling and do what's right for you. You can also read the blog post on TheRadioVagabond.com/282-seven-nomads-7 . THE KEY MOMENTS 00:00 - Welcome to the last episode in this miniseries 03:17 - Starting Small and Testing the Waters 05:19 - The Importance of Planning and Networking 07:55 - Understanding the Challenges and Benefits 10:07 - Taking Baby Steps and Constant Progress 14:47 - The Importance of Stability in Digital Nomadism 15:51 - Overcoming Fear and Embracing the World 17:45 - Finding Your Own Path as a Digital Nomad 19:39 - Learning from Past Mistakes 26:57 - The Cost of Digital Nomadism 29:33 - Reviews and Definition of Digital Nomad 32:06 - Labels and Definitions of Digital Nomad 34:28 - The Future of Nomadic Life 35:18 - Individual Choices in Nomadism 36:19 - Future of the Radio Vagabond NOMAD LINKS Visit Jason Robinson's travel blog, TheNomadExperiment.com and follow him on Instagram as @TheNomadExperiment . Follow Nora Dunn’s YouTube channel with tip
Fri, September 22, 2023
THE GAMBIA: Luxury in the Jungle (Flashback)
Join me in a luxurious place in a jungle in the little West African country, The Gambia. See pictures and read the blog post here .
S10 E281 · Tue, September 19, 2023
281 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (6:7): Eureka Memories That Sealed the Deal
Imagine a life where work and adventure seamlessly blend, and you can explore the world while building a successful career. That's the power of being a digital nomad! In this episode, I had the pleasure of (again) chatting with seven incredible individuals who have embraced this nomadic lifestyle, and this time they have unforgettable memories to share. It's the enchantment of swimming beside a blind elephant in the heart of Thailand, the intrigue of being caught in the spotlight of a reality show tailor-made for globetrotters, and the unexpected camaraderie found with not one but two fearless Albanian grannies. How about forming friendships with locals from every corner of this spinning planet through stand-up comedy, and then, the spark of revelation at the moment the bulb over your head illuminates, revealing that the digital nomad life wasn't just a pipe dream? Also, prepare to be touched by the golden hearts of wanderers as they extend a hand to a struggling family in Manila. Hold your curiosity as we delve into the tale of a shaman in Peru, rendering aid to fellow souls on Ayahuasca ceremonies. Read the full article and see some pictures on www.TheRadioVagabond.com/281-Seven-Nomads-6 – and start your journey towards the digital nomad lifestyle. NOMAD LINKS Visit Jason Robinson's travel blog TheNomadExperiment.com and follow him on Instagram as @TheNomadExperiment . Follow Nora Dunn’s YouTube channel , with tips on travel and travel gear, her blog, TheProfessionalHobo and on Instagram as @TheProfessionalHobo . Follow travel writer on his blog “ ShaunBusuttil .com“ and on Instagram as @TheShaunBusuttil . Chris Cerra's email newsletter, RemoteBase.co , for the best accommodation deals for digital nomads. Use promo code VAGA20 to get 20% off on his Premium Newsletter forever. He’s @nomadaccommodationguy on Instagram Check out Mr. Derek Smith’s website on public speaking . He’s @Mr_Derek_Smith on Instagram. Check out Ranika Koneru's company, <a hr
Fri, September 15, 2023
ALBANIA: Meet My Albanian Friend (Flashback)
Join me in Tirana, Albania, as I make a local friend. This episode was first released in September 2020 .
S10 E281 · Thu, September 14, 2023
281 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now in Mexico
I’m currently in Playa del Carmen, staying at a co-living space. I will be here for a month, and for the last two weeks, I’ve been joined by my oldest daughter, Amanda Bo. On her last day, we talked about our time together in this tropical paradise. I’m sure you will get some inspiration on what to do if you get to this part of the world – with or without a beautiful ginger daughter. This episode is also available on YouTube and on The Radio Vagabond on Facebook: https://youtu.be/_CtUMKHyBGs?si=-vmGQ5e0gon1TDz8 https://fb.watch/n25gvrLUeP/
S10 E280 · Tue, September 12, 2023
280 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (5:7): From Loneliness to Lifelong Connections
Hey there, global explorers. Welcome back to another episode of this miniseries with the seven nomads on The Radio Vagabond. Today, we're diving into something every traveler understands – feeling alone in a world full of new places. Imagine hopping from one exciting spot to another, soaking in new cultures, and living life on your terms. But in between all that excitement, loneliness can sneak in. In this episode, I'm again joined by the seven experienced nomads, each with a trick or two up their sleeves to beat loneliness and create a real sense of community. From bustling markets in India to chasing the magical Northern Lights, our group of seasoned nomads has cracked the code to making friends no matter where you are. We're talking about turning chance meetings into lifelong friendships, how to blend online pals with real-life bonds, and how to build a support system that truly gets your nomadic lifestyle. So, whether you're tuning in from a beachside hammock in Thailand or a cozy corner of a café in Portugal, this episode is your guide to making friends on the move. Get ready to swap loneliness for connections that span the globe. The seven digital nomads are back. Ranika Koneru, Shaun Busuttil, Nora Dunn, Chris Cerra, Gianni Bianchini, Jason Robinson, and Mr. Derek Smith. So, let's conquer digital nomad loneliness – together! KEY MOMENTS · 00:00 - The Tension Between Freedom and Social Connection · 03:13 - Becoming the Nucleus of Your Own Community · 06:04 - Building Support Systems and Cultivating Relationships · 09:32 - The Dance Between Freedom and Belonging · 14:19 - The Benefits of Co-living Spaces · 19:48 - The Commonality of Digital Nomads · 22:50 - Balancing Social Needs · 26:10 - Connecting Through Shared Interests · 28:56 - The Challenges of Dating as a Digital Nomad · 30:58 - Loneliness and Building Communities · 34:25 - Home Base for Digital Nomads · 36:44 - Advice for Aspiring Digital Nomads · 37:13 - Conclusion and Call to Action NOMAD LINKS Visit Jason Robinson's travel blog TheNomadExperiment.c
Fri, September 08, 2023
CANADA: Aboriginal in Montreal (Flashback)
Join me in Montreal, Canada, as I rented a bike and went downtown to the beautiful old center by the river , where I met an Aboriginal from Bear Klan . This episode was first released in January 2018 .
S10 E279 · Tue, September 05, 2023
279 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (4:7): Essential Tools for Nomadic Explorers
If you're feeling overwhelmed and unproductive while trying to work remotely, constantly switching between different apps, and struggling to stay organized, then you are not alone! Many digital nomads find themselves wasting precious time searching for important files and information, leading to missed deadlines and added stress. Have you heard these myths about essential tools for digital nomads? Myth #1: To be productive, you need a fancy, expensive setup. Myth #2: Traveling and working simultaneously is impossible. Myth #3: Productivity tools are only for traditional office settings. Our seven digital nomads are back. Ranika Koneru, Shaun Busuttil, Nora Dunn, Chris Cerra, Gianni Bianchini, Jason Robinson, and Mr. Derek Smith are here to share the truth about essential tools for digital nomads. Find links to all the tools mentioned in the episodes here: Use Google Maps for travel planning, saving locations, and reading reviews of restaurants and hotels. Try Rome2Rio to find the most efficient and cost-effective transportation options between places. Utilize Skyscanner to search for and book flights at the best prices. Use Airbnb to find accommodation everywhere. Consider using Facebook Marketplace for local accommodation options, especially in Southeast Asia. But when it comes to finding an apartment, Shaun mentions Flatio . Chris Cerra has a free newsletter called Remotebase.co , where you get curated Airbnb deals and special discounts. And if you want to sign up for the Premium Newsletter, where the deals are even better and more specific deals it’s Remotebase.co/Premium . Use the code: ”VAGA20” for 20% off the annual membership forever. Visit Nora Dunn's website, TheProfessionalHobo.com , for a regularly updated resource of websites to find monthly accommodations around the world – excluding Airbnb. The Radio Vagabond sponsor, Hotels25.com is also a great tool for the best prices on hotels, guest ho
Fri, September 01, 2023
CANCUN, MEXICO (flashback)
In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, I scuba dive through a coral-rich underwater museum, take a ferry to the island paradise of Isla Mujeres to snorkel, and clap my hands at the ancient Mayan temples of Chichen Itza. Link to the blog post with pictures .
S10 E278 · Tue, August 29, 2023
278 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (3:7): Mastering Work-Life Balance
Do you want to achieve a greater sense of harmony between your work and leisure as a digital nomad? Are you searching for a way to strike a better work-life balance in your nomadic lifestyle? Our seven digital nomad experts have a ton of ideas and maybe the solution you need. In this episode, they will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you create a more balanced and fulfilling nomadic experience where work and leisure seamlessly coexist. Does this sound familiar? You're a digital nomad, constantly on the move, juggling work and adventure. But despite all your efforts, your work-life balance feels like a never-ending struggle. You've been told to simply work less and enjoy more, but that advice isn't helping. Instead, you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and constantly torn between your professional and personal life. It's time to break free from this ineffective approach and find a solution that brings harmony to your nomadic lifestyle. Again, my guests are the seven nomads: Ranika Koneru, Shaun Busuttil, Nora Dunn, Chris Cerra, Gianni Bianchini, Jason Robinson, and Mr. Derek Smith. In this episode, you will... Decode the secrets to harmonizing your professional pursuits and personal life as a digital nomad. Obtain effective methods to uphold a satisfying work-life balance as you journey across the world. Understand the significance of separating work from free time for achieving a more fulfilling nomadic lifestyle. Delve into the artful navigation of work-life balance for the modern digital nomad. Learn about the dilemmas in merging work responsibilities with travel adventures. Decode the secrets to harmonizing your professional pursuits and personal life as a digital nomad. Identify and overcome the trials you might face in managing your professional obligations while exploring the place you're visiting. Gain insights into how the idea of work-life balance has evolved for the digital nomads in today's fast-paced world. Understand the importance of separating work from free time, for your overall satisfaction of being a nomad. LINKS: Visit Jason Robinson's travel blog TheNomadExperiment.com and follow him on Instagram as @TheNomadExperiment . Follow Nora Dunn’s YouTube channel , with tips on travel and travel gear, her blog, <a href="https://www.th
S10 E277 · Mon, August 28, 2023
277 VAGABOND DIARY: Right now in Belize
Take a walk with me in San Pedro and hear where I'm going next. This episode is also available as a video on YouTube and Facebook.
S10 E276 · Sat, August 26, 2023
276 IS UKRAINE SAFE TO VISIT? Updates from the War with Orest Zub
When Russia invaded Ukraine, Orest Zub's life took an unexpected turn. As the conflict engulfed his homeland, his once-thriving business as a travel YouTuber faced its own battle. But Orest found a new purpose, a mission to tell the world about what is happening on the ground in Ukraine and create international connections. And now he wants to invite the world to his country. As a part of NomadMania, he's organizing a tour to Lviv, Kyiv, and Kharkiv. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL… Uncover the deep-seated impacts of the Ukraine conflict on the nation and its people. Gain insights into the crucial importance of global support towards Ukraine's growth and prosperity. Acquire knowledge of the multifaceted effects of the war impacting various aspects of life in Ukraine. Learn the necessary safety and security protocols when considering travel to Ukraine during these tumultuous times. Orest Zub is an individual who fearlessly stands against the wind, navigating through life with fiercely proactive determination. His adept understanding of the intricate convolutions of the ongoing Ukrainian-Russian war makes his perspective uniquely crucial. Originating from Ukraine, Orest has first-hand experience with the conflict's overwhelming impact on diverse sectors. Remarkably, he found ways to channel the storm into a driving force for establishing international connections between Ukraine and the world, undeterred by the odds. He personifies resilience, embodying an unwavering spirit fueling his mission despite the spiralling adversity he has witnessed. KEY MOMENTS 01:01 - Spontaneous Decision to Attend Bansko NomadFest 03:04 - The Complexity of War in Ukraine 10:45 - The End of the War in Ukraine 15:59 - Adapting to the New Reality <span lang
Fri, August 25, 2023
SRI LANKA: The World’s Most Scenic Train Ride (Flashback)
Join me in Fez in Sri Lanka as I go on (arguably) the most scenic train ride in the world. This episode was first released in February 2020 .
S10 E275 · Tue, August 22, 2023
275 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (2:7): Fast Traveller vs Slow-mads
Welcome to the second of the seven episodes with conversations with seven experienced digital nomads. In this one we dive into the concept of travel pace for digital nomads, exploring fast and slow travel styles. Throughout the discussion, the benefits and challenges of fast and slow travel are explored. Fast travel is described as an exhilarating experience, filled with adrenaline and the thrill of exploration. On the other hand, slow travel is likened to savouring a fine wine, allowing for deeper immersion in a place and the formation of connections. The guests also touch on the personal experiences and challenges they have faced with fast travel. They discuss the exhaustion of constantly finding new places to live, navigating unfamiliar environments, and making decisions on the go. They emphasize that slow travel allows for a better balance between work and exploration, as well as a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture. Ultimately, the discussion showcases the varying travel paces of digital nomads and highlights the importance of finding the right balance between fast and slow travel. The episode provides valuable insights for digital nomads seeking to achieve a more fulfilling and sustainable travel lifestyle. The conversations made me reflect on my own travel pace as a digital nomad, sharing the number of places I’ve visited in 2022 and the average length of stay in each location. LINKS: Visit Jason Robinson's Nomad Experiment travel blog to learn about the digital nomad lifestyle and share your own experiences. Follow Nora Dunn’s YouTube channel , with tips on travel and travel gear, and her blog, The Professional Hobo . Follow travel writer Shaun Busuttil on his blog and Instagram . Chris Cerra's email newsletter, RemoteBase.co , for the best accommodation deals for digital nomads. Check out Mr. Derek Smith’s website on public speaking . Check out Ranika Koneru's company, Cloud Connections , for inspiring group travel experiences to the world's greatest festivals. Explore Gianni Bianchini’s travel blog, Nomad Is Beautiful , his personal website GianniBianchini.net , his <a href="https://www.youtube.c
Fri, August 18, 2023
FEZ, MOROCCO: Put on Your Fez in Morocco (Flashback)
Join me in Fez in Morocco in the northwestern part of Africa. This episode was first released in December, 2018 .
S10 E274 · Tue, August 15, 2023
274 SEVEN DIGITAL NOMADS (1:7): How to Kickstart Your Digital Nomad Journey
Break free from societal expectations and embark on a life-changing journey as a digital nomad. My guests who challenge the norm, pursue their desires, and find fulfillment in a world of adventure and freedom are Ranika Koneru, Shaun Busuttil, Nora Dunn, Chris Cerra, Gianni Bianchini, Jason Robinson, Mr. Derek Smith. In this episode, you will: Get a glimpse into the enthralling world of the digital nomad lifestyle and their exciting experiences. Hear how our seven nomads got started. Scrutinize the reasons that instigate individuals to adopt the digital nomad way of life. Familiarize yourself with the tough realities and hurdles that mark the journey of a digital nomad. Glean insider tips and strategies to strike the right work-travel balance in a digital nomad's life. Unearth the potential personal growth and transformative journey made possible through the nomadic lifestyle. Unique digital nomad experiences In this episode, you will be taken on a captivating journey into the lives of different digital nomads. These exclusive insights highlight how travel, work, adventure, and personal growth intertwine in the digital nomad lifestyle. By diving into the authentic stories, the episode demonstrates that everyone's nomadic journey is distinctly unique, proving there isn't merely a single path to this lifestyle. The key moments in this episode are: 02:44 - Ranika Koneru: Becoming a Nomad 03:59 - Gianni Bianchini: Ten Years as a Nomad 05:06 - Meeting Chris Cerra 06:22 - Shaun Busuttil: A Nomad's Perspective 08:56 - Jason Robinson: The Nomad Experiment 14:00 - Chis Cerra: Becoming a nomad 14:54 - The Motivation to Start a Nomadic Lifestyle 17:09 - Nora Dunn: The Evolution of Digital Nomadism 20:26 - Mr. Derek Smith: Embracing Public Speaking as a Nomad 23:30 - Jason Robinson: Overcoming Challenges as a Nomad 28:08 - Nora and Ranika: The Curiosity to Understand Different Cultures 32:00 - Chris Cerra: Leaving Behind Careers and Taking Risks 35:21 - Derek and Gianni: Becoming Nomads 40:30 - Shaun Busuttil: Starting as a Freelance Writer 46:21 - Poem Written and Read by an AI The resources mentioned in this episode are: Follow travel writer Shaun Busuttil on his blog and Instagram . Chris Cerra's email newsletter, RemoteBase.co , for the best accommodation deals for digital nomads. Check out Ranika
Fri, August 11, 2023
WASHINGTON DC, USA: Touring the Mall (Flashback)
In this episode I take you around “The Mall” in Washington DC with a local. And we’re not talking about a shopping mall. This episode was first released in October 2018 .
Sat, August 05, 2023
QUEBEC, CANADA: Therapeutic Horses in the Garden of Eden (Flashback)
Join me in Canada, where I visit an idyllic farm with therapeutic horses. Listen to find out what that’s all about. This episode was first released in May 2021 .
Fri, July 28, 2023
CONNECTICUT, USA: CouchSurfing Couch Crash (Flashback)
I’m back in Connecticut, USA, and attending another CouchSurfing Couch Crash called ConnectiCouch. So, in this episode, I’ll share a mashup of two episodes I recorded when I attended a similar event here five years ago in August 2018. Links to the blog posts for the two episodes (with many pictures) are here and here .
Fri, July 21, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Hong Kong
Join me in this episode, where I’m in Hong Kong. This one was first released in January 2017 .
Tue, July 18, 2023
273 LIECHTENSTEIN: Explore the Majestic Mountains and Meet Friendly Locals
If you're frustrated with the lack of unique and diverse experiences in Liechtenstein, despite your efforts to explore, you are not alone! Many tourists find themselves visiting the same popular attractions, missing out on the hidden gems that truly showcase the beauty and culture of this tiny country. Instead of experiencing the vibrant local traditions and breathtaking landscapes, you may find yourself stuck in crowded tourist hotspots, unable to immerse yourself in the authentic Liechtenstein experience fully. But fear not; countless activities and attractions are waiting to be discovered, and with the right guidance, you can unlock the true essence of Liechtenstein and create memories that will last a lifetime. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO: Explore the captivating geography and intriguing attributes of Liechtenstein. Dive into the lucrative dental industry and the art of crafting false teeth in Liechtenstein. Peek into the affluent yet ordinary lifestyle of Liechtenstein's own royal family. Unravel the unique dynamics between Liechtenstein's monarchs and their subjects. Discover some of the must-visit attractions and activities in Liechtenstein. My special guest s are Louise Hansson from the tourist office in Vaduz , and The Radio Vagabond’s Senior Royal Correspondent, Paul Rosner. Louise Hansson is a bona fide blend of Swedish origin and Liechtenstein upbringing, making her a trusted source for all things Liechtenstein. She’s lived most of her life here in this enchanting European enclave, so her knowledge about the region is as vast as its stunning Alps. Louise's father was among the few dentists operating in Liechtenstein in the '70s, and he served the local community for over 30 years! Now, she passionately showcases the charm and unexpected surprises this tiny nation offers. THE KEY MOMENTS IN THIS EPISODE ARE: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Liechtenstein 00:03:08 - Facts about Liechtenstein 00:08:39 - Exploring Schaan 00:09:33 - Driving to the Capital 00:10:13 - Interview with Louise Hansson 00:17:19 - The Russian Offer to Liechtenstein 00:18:08 - The Wealth of Liechtenstein's Monarchy 00:19:11 - Tourist Attractions in Liechtenstein 00:21:18 - Liechtenstein's Princely Family 00:26:54 - Liechtenstein's Unique Monarchy 00:33:42 - Living in Liechtenstein 00:34:28 - The Beauty of Liechtenstein
Fri, July 14, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Florida
Join me in this episode, where I’m in Florida, and meet Cynthia for the first time. Later she became my travel partner; since then, we’ve been to nine countries. This one was first released in October 2021.
Fri, July 07, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Cambodia
Join me in this episode, where I’m in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and talk with a young man who went from a poor kid climbing up his parent's coconut trees before and after school to the manager of the hotel I’m staying at. This one was first released in June 2017.
S10 E272 · Tue, June 27, 2023
272 UGANDA: Slip Sliding After Gorilla Trek
This is part two of my days visiting a gorilla family in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. If you haven’t heard part one , you should listen to that one first. Then you will know that I’ve just had lunch in the forest with the group, and we were reflecting on the unique experience. GETTING SLIPPERY But the day wasn’t over: we still had to get down to civilization. And the descent proved to be a bit of a challenge for your trusted vagabond. After witnessing these magnificent creatures chow down on their leafy delicacies, it was time for us to refuel. So, in a cozy clearing right next to where we mingled with the gorillas, we sat down, ready to tackle the most important meal of the day – a good ol' sandwich and a trusty bottle of water. But hold on to your hats, dear listeners, because the day was far from over. We still had a mission ahead of us: the grand descent back to civilization. Now, you may think, "Oh, going downhill, that's a piece of cake!" Well, let me tell you, it wasn't all smooth sailing for this intrepid traveler. PRIDE WOUNDED, BUT NOTHING ELSE The descent turned out to be a bit of a challenge for me. It was like nature threw a curveball just to keep things interesting. Steep slopes, slippery terrain, and unexpected obstacles tested my balance and agility. It was an action-packed descent that would have made any adventure movie director proud. Picture this: a not-so-rainy day in the muddy forest. Sure, it had poured the day before, transforming the tracks into a slippery mess. Now, here's where the fun begins. The rest of the hiking group, oh so clever, pranced along with their sensible hiking shoes, with so much pattern on their outsoles that they could probably scale a vertical wall. And then there was me, the fashionably clueless one, strutting my stuff in regular sneakers that might as well have been made of banana peels. With every step I took, it was like walking on a tightrope of terror. The mud clung to my shoe soles like a clingy ex, turning each step into a slippery slide of pure comedy. I was the star of my very own slapstick show, slipping and sliding like a cartoon character on a banana binge. Don't get me wrong – I had my two trusty walking sticks in my hands, ready to conquer the treacherous terrain. But even with those in my arsenal, I was no match for the slippery mud monster. It was like having roller skates with wheels that had minds of their own, doing pirouettes and cartwheels whenever they pleased. Who needs a theme park when you have Mother Nature's amusement park right under your feet? And let me tell you about my grand finale: In slip number fourteen, I
S10 E271 · Wed, June 21, 2023
271 UGANDA: Trekking Through Bwindi for Close Encounter with Mountain Gorillas
Join me as I trek through Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to find a family of mountain gorillas and experience the magic of observing these incredible creatures up close. Don't miss this thrilling episode of The Radio Vagabond. Also, you get to know Charles and Amos, both with a deep knowledge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and its enchanting mountain gorillas. Charles is an experienced driver and tour guide from Eco Adventure Safaris dedicated to providing visitors with an unforgettable trip through Uganda's stunning scenery. Amos is an experienced ranger guide with a vast knowledge of the forest's ecosystem and a gift for recounting engaging stories about endangered mountain gorillas. Both Charles and Amos are passionate about wildlife and environmental conservation, offering wildlife enthusiasts an extraordinary journey that will leave a lasting impact. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the wonders of gorilla trekking in Uganda while venturing into the majestic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Gain fascinating insights into the lives of mountain gorillas and their awe-inspiring habitats. Learn about silverback gorillas' crucial roles and behavior in their social groups. Acquire essential information on permits and costs for mountain gorilla visits in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction I’m in Uganda, waiting for a driver to take me on a three-day tour to the jungle to see the mountain gorillas. 00:02:20 - Eco Adventures Safari Charles from Eco Adventures Safari picks me up, and we spend 10 hours driving to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Charles explains the itinerary, including community walks, gorilla tracking, and the journey back. 00:05:10 - Rolex SnackCharles introduces me to a popular Ugandan street food called Rolex. The snack consists of an omelette rolled up in a chapati and has become a symbol of Ugandan entrepreneurship. 00:08:08 - Bwindi Impenetrable National ParkI describe the national park, which covers an area of 320 square kilometres and is home to almost half of the world's mountain gorillas. UNESCO also recognizes the park as a World Heritage Site due to its many different plants and animals, including the Batwa Pygmies, one of Africa's oldest indigenous communities. 00:12:36 - Trekking to See GorillasWe arrive at the park headquarters for a briefing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger guides. After a performance from the Rushaga Community Handicraft Association, we begin our trek to see the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. 00:17:14 - G
Fri, June 16, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Slovenia
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode, where I’m in Slovenia – the only country with LOVE in its name. This one was first released in November 2020 .
S10 E270 · Tue, June 13, 2023
270 UKRAINE: Curtin Helping the Locals in the War
In this episode, I’m talking to a previous guest. His name is Curtin, and I’ve got to know him on a Nomad Cruise from Barcelona to Brazil. This was back in 2018, and we recorded an episode about his extraordinary life when we got to Brazil. Curtin is an American man who put his life on hold to go to Ukraine when Russia invaded in 2022 – not to fight but to help the locals survive. First, he went to Poland and soon started bringing food, toys, and other things across the border to the people of Ukraine. Then after a while, he went further east to Kyiv and even all the way to the front line, putting his own life in danger. His time as an aid worker in Ukraine and many years as a nomad is now over. He’s on his way back to the USA to teach history. We are lucky that people like Curtin unselfishly go out of their way to help people in need. Listen to the first episode I did with Curtin in 2018. In a world consumed by chaos and strife, There lived a man named Curtin, a beacon of life. When war ignited in Ukraine's land, He decided to lend a helping hand. He ventured to Ukraine via Poland, a land nearby, Bringing food, toys, and aid to supply Through sleepless nights and tireless days, He worked in ways that defied worldly praise. Not to fight, but to uplift, he did strive, To bring solace to those barely alive. With danger as his constant companion, He embraced the risk, fueled by compassion. In November, he took a break, With nomad friends, memories to make. A vagabond appearance, a scruffy guise, But greeted warmly, love shining in their eyes. Now, his time as an aid worker draws to an end, His nomadic years are also reaching a bend. Returning to his homeland, a new role awaits, To teach history, sharing knowledge's gates. We are fortunate, blessed for souls like Curtin, Who venture where hope seems uncertain. They put their own lives on hold, unafraid, To extend a hand, providing aid.
Fri, June 09, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Sri Lanka
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode, where I’m in Sri Lanka and attend The Festival of the Tooth in Kandy – and say my opinion about people riding elephants. This one was first released in February 2020 .
Fri, June 02, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Dakar, Senegal
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode, where I’m in Dakar, Senegal in the westernmost part of mainland Africa. This one was first released in February 2019 .
Fri, May 26, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Japan
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode, where I’m arriving in Japan. This one was first released in September 2017 .
Fri, May 26, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: North Carolina, USA
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode, where I’m at my first Pride and have a conversation with a trans woman. This one was first released in September 2018 .
Fri, May 19, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Bahamas
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I do something I’m not proud of. Have a listen to what that is all about. This one was first released in February 2018 .
S10 E269 · Tue, May 09, 2023
269 UGANDA: The Incredible Tale of a Remarkable Woman
Anything but First World Problems There's nothing good to watch on TV. I can't decide what to order from the extensive menu at this restaurant. I have too many clothes and not enough closet space. The barista at my coffee shop spelled my name wrong on my cup. My phone is too big to fit comfortably in my pocket. Oh no… My phone battery is dying, and I forgot my charger. I can't find my favourite flavour of sparkling water at the grocery store. Do these problems seem familiar to you? These are first-world problems, and I’m just as guilty of having them: I’ve been frustrated when my phone was dying, and I’d forgotten my power bank at an Ed Sheeran concert in Atlanta. And you’ve heard me complain about Starbucks getting my name wrong on an overcharged cup of tall Americano. In this episode, we’re going to be dealing with other problems, like: “Should we give our 13-year-old baby girl away to be married to an older man, or should we keep her here and risk that she will be abducted and turned into a sex slave.” That’s the kinda stuff we’ll be dealing with in this episode, as Susan Laker will tell her life story. WARNING It’s also a story that will be hard to listen to. It’s heartbreaking, and with so many graphic details, that will not be suitable for children. At the same time, I feel this might be the most important episode of The Radio Vagabond that I’ve done up until now. My name is Palle Bo. Welcome back to the third and final part of my miniseries from the Acholi Quarter in Kampala, Uganda. INTRO I hope you have had a chance to listen to the first two episodes from The Acholi Quarter in Uganda, where Susan Laker, a small but mighty woman in her late 30s, took us around. She’s the co-founder and leader of 22STARS Foundation’s work here, always helping children and families in need with a big smile. But let me tell you, her journey wasn't always a straight path. This tale is a wild one, full of crazy twists and turns. It could be a movie, maybe something like The Color Purple, set in Uganda. CHILD BRIDE Her parent gave her away to be married when she was just a child. She was angry at her parents when this happened and didn’t understand why. “I was 13 years old when I was force into early marriage by my parents.” <p class="
Fri, May 05, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Toronto, Canada
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I go to my first baseball game ever – and witness a Major League homerun. This one was first released in December 2017 .
S10 E268 · Tue, May 02, 2023
268 UGANDA: Inspiring Success Stories in a Community of Hope
Welcome to part 2 of a mini-series of three episodes from the Acholi Quarter in Kampala, Uganda. If you've heard the first part, you would know that it's a quarter with challenges, that's getting help from a foundation called 22STARS. They also make jewellery from recycled paper, and 22STARS helps them sell it worldwide. You should go back and listen before this one if you haven't heard it. DON'T CALL IT A SLUM In my work with these episodes, every time I've read up on this quarter, it's been referred to as "a slum." Maybe it's just me. But I'm not too fond of that label. So, I looked into what can be classified as a slum area. Here's what I found: "The housing units in slums are usually substandard and lack Basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, ventilation, and electricity. Slum areas are characterised by high population density, with many people living in small spaces. And they typically lack access to basic services such as health care, education, and sanitation facilities. Slums also often have poor infrastructure, including unpaved roads, limited or no access to public transport, and inadequate sewer system. Plus, often with a high level of poverty and unemployment which can lead to social problems such as crime, drug abuse, and other forms of social deprivation." So, with that definition, the Acholi Quarter in Kampala, Uganda, can be classified as a slum, but it is so much more. It's also a vibrant and lively neighbourhood that bursts with energy and personality. " While it may be a factually accurate description of the living conditions in the Acholi Quarter, the use of the term "slum" can also be seen as stigmatizing and degrading to the residents who live there. So, instead of using the term "slum," it may be more appropriate to use terms such as "informal settlement" or "underserved community" to describe the Acholi Quarter while also acknowledging the challenges faced by residents and the need for greater investment in infrastructure, services, and opportunities." From the moment I step foot in this bustling community, I'm swept up in the sights, sounds, and smells of everyday life. In this episode, I'll walk into the area with Susan Laker and Nicholas Basalirwa from 22STARS. This organization has done much in recent years to improve the living conditions in this area, such as initiatives to provide better housing, sanitation, education, and access to services. WALKING TOUR IN THE COMMUNITY In the latest episode, they gave me the lowdown on the microloans they've been handing out to help small local businesses, and now they're showing me some of the success stories. As we walk, the aroma of sizzling street food surrounds us. Vendors are hawking everything from grilled meat skewers to piping hot samosas. And then, there it is: "Rolex." I'll get back to that. As we weave through the area, Sus
Fri, April 28, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: New York
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I a good friend, Scott Gurian shows me around in New York, Brooklyn and Queens. This one was first released in October 2021 .
S10 E267 · Tue, April 25, 2023
267 UGANDA: Empowering Women in Uganda through Recycled Paper Jewellery
Welcome to the first of a miniseries from the struggling Acholi Quarter; a part of Kampala in Uganda that is getting help from a foundation called 22STARS. The story actually starts a few years earlier, when I got to know a Dutch/German woman, Stella Romana Airoldi on a Nomad Cruise. In case you don’t know Nomad Cruise is like a conference for digital nomads on a cruise ship. On this one in the Mediterranean from Malaga to Athens, Stella was given a talk about a social enterprise and foundation called 22STARS – together with a Ugandan woman, Susan Laker. Susan and other Ugandan women are making jewellery out of colourful recycled paper and Stella is helping them sell it around the world. This talk and meeting Stella and Susan on the Nomad Cruise made me think, that I had to go to Uganda and see this with my own eyes. So, in this episode I’ll take you along as I drive down a dirt road in the Acholi Quarter, a slum area in the outskirts of Kampala. I’m in the car with Nicholas Basalirwa from 22STARS, and there’s a young woman on the street that looks just like Susan. She says hi to me in the car and I say, “are you Susan?” But the woman says “no, I’m her daughter” – and it surprised me that Susan could have a grown-up daughter. 22STARS JEWELLERY AND FOUNDATION Let me give you a bit of background. 22STARS started back in 2009 when Stella was 23 years old, and Susan was just two years older. Stella was studying international law and came to Uganda to do research for her thesis. Here, another Ugandan woman, Aidah Wafula, who’s a social worker at an HIV/Aids Information Center in Kampala introduced her to Susan, who, at the time, didn’t speak any English. But still, Stella could see hear her extreme willpower and sense her big heart, and Stella wanted to help any way she could. So, in the following few years Stella sent money annually to support Susan`s business, and with that support, Susan took the opportunity to go back to school. And she was able to put food on the table for her three children. Before she met Stella, they were working in the stone quarry, but now they were able to go to school. At the end of 2012, Stella returned to Kampala and was extremely impressed when Susan spoke to her in English and showed her what she had learned. Susan expressed the need to market and sell jewellery from the other women in her community, so that they also would be able to pay for the education of their children. And the very same day the 22STARS Jewellery business was created. WOMEN MAKING PAPER JEWELLERY As I get out of the car, I see a handful of women sitting on the sidewalk making the beautiful handmade paper jewellery. And they smile at me and give me a real Ugandan w
Fri, April 21, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Vietnam
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit Hanoi and Halong Bay in northern Vietnam. This one was first released in May 2017 .
Fri, April 14, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Guatemala
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I am in Guatemala. This one was first released in September 2021 .
S10 E266 · Sat, April 08, 2023
266 VAGABOND DIARY: Road Tripping in New Zealand
Update from where I am right now: The South Island of New Zealand. This episode is also available as a video on Facebook and YouTube .
Fri, April 07, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Pattaya, Thailand
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit an orphanage in Pattaya, Thailand. This one was first released in March 2017 .
S10 E265 · Wed, April 05, 2023
265 PODCAST TAKE-OVER: Wanderlearn with Francis Tapon
This is The Radio Vagabond, and then today, it’s not really. Because I have something special for you in this one. There’s another podcast that I listen to, and I would like to introduce for you. It’s hosted and produced by a good friend of mine, Francis Tapon, and his podcast is called “Wanderlearn”. It’s a travel podcast, but so much more. Francis is an extreme traveller and I’m almost out of breath when I hear about all the crazy stuff he’s done – like extreme hikes and travelling to every country in Africa without leaving the continent and attempting to climb the highest mountain in each of them, and so much more. The episode you’re about to hear features me as a guest. Just to make it super meta… We recorded it when we met for the first time in Spain at the TBEX conference. Since then, we also met in Yerevan at the Extraordinary Travel Festival and then again at TBEX in Thailand. I also did an interview with Francis about hitchhiking, and you can find that one either here or by going to the Wanderlearn podcast. He published this episode in December, when he was in Morocco, just after Morocco was celebrating a win at the FIFA World Cup. So, you’ll hear him talking about that. I’ll be back after the Wanderlearn episode and give you a quick update about what I’ve been up to lately. Here’s Francis Tapon and his episode of Wanderlearn. Enjoy. Make sure that you find Wanderlearn in your podcast app or go to ftapon.com to learn more about this extraordinary guy. A quick update about what's been happening in my life : I am still in New Zealand where I was, the last time you heard from me – and I haven't been publishing much apart from the Flashback episodes that you get every Friday. I haven't even done the diary entries that I normally put out on Saturdays, and part of the reason for that is I've been traveling so fast, making a road trip around this South I sland. Also , I ran into some difficulties, like an SD card with some footage that all of a sudden didn't work. So I wasn't able to do a video . There was a ferry that was delayed, so I wasn't able to sit
Fri, March 31, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Ethiopia
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit Ethiopia. This one was first released in July 20 19 .
Fri, March 24, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Bolivia
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit Bolivia and go driving on Death Road. This one was first released in February 2022.
Fri, March 17, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Montenegro
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit beautiful Montenegro. This one was first released in October 20 20 .
Fri, March 10, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: South Africa
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I drive the Garden Route east of Cape Town, South Africa – and visit the famous Ronnie’s Sex Shop. This one was first released in June 20 20 .
Fri, March 03, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Sahara
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I drive through the Sahara Dessert. This one was first released in February 20 19 .
S10 E263 · Tue, February 28, 2023
263 NEBRASKA, USA: Cattle, Parade, and a Tale of a Danish Immigrant
HARVEST CELEBRATIONS AND HERITAGE: EXPLORING GOTHENBURG, NEBRASKA Welcome to another episode from my American road trip. In this one, I’ve reached Scandinavia … in Nebraska. I had a “Farm Stay” that I booked through Airbnb. Here they call it “ Retreat to Buffalo Creek Valley Bunkhouse ” but you can also book it directly at their own website YourBunkhouse.com . I get to stay in a renovated cabin that used to be the host’s Great Grandpa's workshop. I’m greeted by John and their dog and after showing me the cabin, we go over to the main house of the farm where I meet Mary Lou and their grown-up son, Chris. FROM PASTURES TO PLATE: THE CATTLE INDUSTRY IN GOTHENBURG Chris is a modern cowboy and as he was about to go check on the cattle roaming around on the fields. He asked me if I’d like to tag along, and obviously I accepted. So, we saddled up – in his pickup truck with the dog in the back and was on our way. We drove around on the field looking at the cattle. The cows, a bull and even a little baby calf. I got to learn a lot about cattle farming in Nebraska from this fifth-generation cowboy. As Chris gets out of the car to open the gate to the field, let me talk a little bit about cattle farming here in the state of Nebraska. It’s a significant industry, as Nebraska is a major producer of beef in the United States. You’ll find a large number of cattle ranches and feedlots, where cattle are raised for meat production. Nebraska has favourable conditions for cattle farming, including a large supply of grass and feed crops, as well as a good climate for year-round grazing. The state also has a strong transportation infrastructure and is located near major beef-processing centres. We’re driving on a bumpy hilly field, and I can see that Chris is a pro. He’s definitely done this before. It might not be a big farm they have but, in my book, they have a lot of cows, a bull and when I was checking on the cattle with Chris, we spot the cutest little baby calf. Cattle farmers in Nebraska use a variety of techniques to raise their animals, including pasture-based systems, feedlot operations, and a combination of both. In feedlot operations, they are confined to pens and fed a specially formulated diet to maximize weight gain but in pasture-based systems like here, the cattle are allowed to graze freely on grass. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly cattle farming practices in Nebraska. Many farmers are using techniques like rotational
S10 E262 · Sat, February 25, 2023
262VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now, in Melbourne, Australia
Here is my weekly diary, telling you what's been happening in my nomad life. I’m back in Melbourne after a week of road-tripping on the Great Ocean Road.
Fri, February 24, 2023
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Nicaragua
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit an orphanage in Nicaragua. This one was first released in August 20 18 .
S10 E261 · Tue, February 21, 2023
261 SOUTH DAKOTA, USA: Ghosts of Deadwood, Mount Rushmore, and more
Welcome to this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I continue my road trip in the old west of the USA. We started in Billings, Montana, went to Yellowstone, and east to Devil's Tower in Wyoming. And in this one, I've driven an hour further east to a place with a Wild West History – and a place that is said to be one of the most haunted hotels in the American West. My name is Palle Bo. Welcome to f*ing Deadwood… as they say in the TV series. BLACK HILLS OF SOUTH DAKOTA I'm in The Black Hills, a range of South Dakota mountains known for their stunning natural beauty and rich history. The hills are home to several national parks and monuments, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, with the iconic carved faces of four American Presidents, and also Badlands National Park, which features unique geological formations and diverse wildlife. More on both of these a bit later. The Black Hills are also an important cultural and spiritual center for several Native American tribes, including the Lakota and the Cheyenne. In the late 1800s, the Black Hills were the site of the famous Black Hills Gold Rush, which brought thousands of settlers to the area in search of riches. THE GOLD RUSH PUT THIS PLACE ON THE MAP And we start in a small town in South Dakota that was a big part of this Gold Rush and so uniquely the old Wild West that it became the location and name of a TV series and a movie. I'm in Deadwood, South Dakota, a town with a rich and wild history that makes it one of the unique places in the United States. Deadwood attracted some of the most famous figures of its time, including Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Today, the town has embraced its history, with many original buildings still standing and used as hotels, restaurants, casinos, and museums. And I start my visit to Deadwood by going to one of these museums. ADAMS MUSEUM The Adams Museum is the oldest in The Black Hills, and I go to learn more about the rich history of Deadwood. In 1930 pioneer businessman W.E. Adams founded the Adams Museum right here in Deadwood to preserve and display the history of the Black Hills. He donated the building to the City of Deadwood. Inside, I speak to Visitor Services Associate at the museum, Diane. "The Gold Rush attracted many people here, and at the time there were 5,000 people living here. Today only around 1,200." Deadwood was founded during the Black Hills Gold Rush of 1875, and it quickly became one of the most dangerous and lawless towns in the American West. Lots of legendary figures used to hang out here, and let me fill you in on two of the most well-known. WILD BILL HICKOK AND CALAMITY JANE Wild Bill Hickok was a legendary gunslinger and lawman of the American West, and his death in Deadwood
S10 E260 · Sat, February 18, 2023
260 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now, in Melbourne, Australia
Here is my weekly diary, where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life. I’ve arrived in Melbourne down south in the land down under.
Fri, February 17, 2023
NEW YORK: 20 years later (Flashback)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit New York 20 years after 9/11. This one was first released in September 2021.
S10 E259 · Mon, February 13, 2023
259 USA: The Wild West Experience from Billings and Yellowstone
I’m back in the USA after a brief stay in London. In this episode, I’ll be in Montana and Yellowstone National Park – where I get up close with a bunch of buffalos and a big bear. I met Stefan Cattarin of Visit Billings and asked him to say a few words about Billings. “We are the largest city in the state, we serve about a 500-mile radius as the largest economic hub. We’re a railroad town founded in 1882, and part of that American expansion era, but we’ve since become a progressive cradle in this region.” It’s not the typical big American city with skyscrapers, but even though it’s not so big, it has a lot of hotels. According to Stefan, they serve around 5,000 room nights with 50 hotels. “Montana has a draw. People want to come here, so we get a lot of leisure travel and the location between Denver, Seattle and Minneapolis makes it a natural place to stop.” FACTS ABOUT WHERE WE ARE With around 100,000 people, Billings is the largest city in Montana and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving economy. Montana is nicknamed "The Treasure State" because of its abundant natural resources, including coal, oil, gold, and silver. Billings was once a hub for cowboys and is still known for its rodeo culture, hosting the Montana Fair rodeo each summer. Montana is home to more than a million acres of national parks and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can also find the longest undammed river in the lower part of the United States here – the Yellowstone River. Montana is one of the largest producers of organic wheat in the United States and is known for its delicious wheat-based products. Montana is also known for its thriving arts and music scene, with several venues in Billings hosting live performances and events year-round. You have a lot of space here. With only seven people per square mile, Montana is the third least densely populated state in the USA. Only Alaska and Wyoming have fewer people per square mile. YELLOWSTONE COUNTY MUSEUM IN A HISTORIC CABIN I spot a museum as I pick up my rental car at Billings Logan International Airport. It’s called Yellowstone County Museum . It’s placed right on top of the rim, right next to the airport. There’s an amazing view here, but once you head inside the historic cabin and see more tha
S10 E258 · Sat, February 11, 2023
258 AGABOND DIARY: Right Now, in Airlie Beach, Australia
Here is my weekly diary, where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life. I’m still in Airlie Beach on the east coast of Australia and reflecting on my time here in this beautiful country .
Fri, February 10, 2023
THAILAND: Nomad Hotspot, Chiang Mai (flashback)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. This one was first released in April 2017.
S10 E257 · Mon, February 06, 2023
257 SAUDI ARABIA: Old Town, Half-Built Skyscraper, and Camel Beauty Contest
Welcome back to the last episode from The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In this one, we’re going to Jeddah, after a stop in beautiful Yanbu at the Red Sea, and stay with a local and look at a very special construction site standing still. And then head back to Riyadh to visit The Camel Festival and look at some beautiful camels entering the Camel Beauty Contest. THE DRESS CODE A few words about the dress code in Saudi Arabia. It is expected that both men and women dress modestly. This includes covering the arms and legs and wearing an abaya (a headscarf) for women. As a Saudi Arabian visitor, it is important to respect local customs and dress codes. In the first three days, Cynthia would be wearing a headscarf to cover her hair, but then we were told that it’s not necessary for women to cover their hair, so she stopped doing that and never had any comments about it. Except people smiling and saying, you’re beautiful when they saw her blonde hair. That happened quite a few times here at the night market in Yanbu. It is also worth noting that the dress code in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on the region you are in and the specific circumstances. For example, we are expected to dress more modestly when visiting holy sites or attending religious events. NIGHT MARKET IN YANBU After checking in, we spend a lovely evening at the Night Market in Yanbu. The buildings are traditional style but fully restored – it was shut down for 10 years and recently reopened. We have a nice chat with a young lady named Mashaal, who has a small doll shop in the Night Market. As we depart, Masaal's mom, who didn’t speak any English, approaches and gives us a bag of delicious dates as a gift. No strings attached. Truly just a gift. The weather is lovely, and we stroll the courtyard outside the Night Market. It is not crowded, but everyone is active, with many families here and kids in 3-foot-long electrical mini-cars driving around on the square. We’re surprised by how little noise there is – people are generally quiet with no loud voices. FACTS ABOUT YANBU Yanbu is a port city with a population of 188,000 (250,000 in the urban area), located on the Red Sea west coast of Saudi Arabia. It is considered to be one of the major industrial cities in the country, even though it’s quite small. It is home to the Yanbu Industrial City, which is one of the largest industrial complexes in the Middle East and is known for its oil refineries and petrochemical plants. Yanbu is known for its rich history, which dates back at least 2,500 years. According to Wikipedia, it was established in the year 491 BC. It
S10 E256 · Sat, February 04, 2023
256 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now in Australia
Here is my weekly diary, where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life. I’m in Airlie Beach on the east coast of Australia and on a trip to Whitehaven Beach – one of the best beaches in the world.
Fri, February 03, 2023
SOUTH AFRICA: Garden Route, South Africa (flashback)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where start my road trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg in South Africa. This one was first released in June 2020.
S10 E255 · Thu, February 02, 2023
255 SAUDI ARABIA: Interview with a Saudi (part 2)
Welcome to part two of the conversation with my Saudi friend "J". If you haven’t heard part one yet, you should listen to that one first. We will talk about love life, couples, arranged marriages, dating, sex before marriages, wedding traditions, dowry, the wedding party and how different it is from our traditions. But also about the Saudi way of inviting guests over for dinner and not sitting down eating with them, about progress and extreme changes in this young country, about Saudi Arabia opening up to tourism and if Saudis see the western people as decadent and potentially a bad influence. But also about LGBTQ, if women are oppressed, driving, drugs, drinking, democracy, crime, safety, the Royal family, and camels. My name is Palle Bo, and I gotta keep moving. See you.
S10 E254 · Tue, January 31, 2023
254 SAUDI ARABIA: The Ancient, Modern, and Hip Al Ula
Before we start, let me apologise for being a week late with this one – and part two of my conversation with my Saudi friend, “J”. But there’s a good reason for that: The screen on my MacBook stopped working – again. You might remember that I broke it when I was in Uganda less than a year ago. At that time, there was a small crack on it. This time I did nothing. It simply just stopped working. Nobody knows why. I had it replaced in March in Denmark, so only ten months ago. The Apple warranty only covers 90 days, but the Danish consumer law would give me 12 months. The only thing is that I’m not in Denmark. In fact, I’m halfway across the planet, so it was not an option for me to travel back to get it fixed. And the price of a new screen is more than a thousand dollars or Euros. So, I called Apple Support and was put through to a senior supporter who, after an hour, made an exemption. They would pay for the screen, and I only had to pay for the labour to the authorised computer repair shop in Cairns, Australia. So, while I was scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, they worked on it. Now it’s back, and so are the next episodes from Saudi Arabia. When I left you, I was in Al-Ula, where we start in this one. AL ULA: WHERE CULTURE MEETS NATURE I’m travelling with my good friend Cynthia from Florida. We’re in the north-western part of Saudi Arabia in the town of Al Ula. It is a stunning area, one I would like to return to later and spend a couple more days in. We’re only here two nights, and today we have a full day where we’re trying to see if we can get a helicopter ride and hopefully also visit the world’s biggest mirror building. Al Ula – like all of Saudi Arabia, still remains largely off the global tourism radar, giving us plenty of space and time for reflection with the vast desert and the monumentality of its natural assets. You heard me in the latest episode tell you about the stunning natural rock formations and canyons, but there are also a ton of adventure sports options and cutting-edge art installations. MEETING A HIP SAUDI WOMAN In the morning headed straight to the vendor street located immediately above the "Old Town" of Al Ula to find a place for breakfast. The street is above the ancient city and looks new, but the construction of the shops and restaurants mirrors the style of Old Town. There were only a dozen tourists as we strolled the street around 10 am. Again, we have it to ourselves. There was a small booth where the young girl, Dalal, was selling trips for an adventure company, Husaak Adventures . She was dressed in jeans and hiking boots and had no hair covering. Even
S10 E253 · Sat, January 28, 2023
253 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now in Australia
Here are ten minutes where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life. I’ve made my way to Cairns in the northeastern part of Australia. It’s been two weeks since my latest diary entry – and there’s a reason for that: My MacBook screen went black. You can also hear me talking about going scuba diving in The Great Barrier Reef.
Fri, January 27, 2023
SOUTH AFRICA: Saving Children in Cape Town (Flashback)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit an orphanage in Cape Town. This one was first released in March 2020.
S10 E252 · Thu, January 19, 2023
252 SAUDI ARABIA: Interview with a Saudi (Part 1)
In this episode, I have a conversation with my Saudi friend "J". We will talk about love life, couples, arranged marriages, dating, sex before marriages, wedding traditions, dowry, the wedding party and how different it is from our traditions. But also about the Saudi way of inviting guests over for dinner and not sitting down eating with them, about progress and extreme changes in this young country, about Saudi Arabia opening up to tourism and if Saudis see the western people as decadent and potentially a bad influence. But also about LGBTQ, if women are oppressed, driving, drugs, drinking, democracy, crime, safety, the Royal family, and camels. My name is Palle Bo, and I gotta keep moving. See you.
S10 E251 · Wed, January 18, 2023
251 SAUDI ARABIA: Road Tripping to the Edge of the World (fixed)
Welcome back to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was the third day in Riyadh, and at 11 am, we left the apartment and our base for four nights. After a stop in a unique and impressive modern mall with a great water feature, I left the capital of Saudi Arabia with my travel friend, Cynthia, in our rental car to find the "Edge of the World". The Edge of the World Riyadh is on a plateau. And there’s a place on the edge of this plateau called ”Edge of the World”. You would normally book expensive tours – at up to $500+US per person, to go there. But we decided to self-drive. There are two access roads to the official point. One is only open on weekends (and not this day), and the other access was in bad condition and currently only good by 4WD. We got lucky that Cynthia has a local acquaintance from the CouchSurfing community, Mohammad. He told us how to get to the REAL Edge of the World. It is near, but not at the tourist spot. These directions included something like: "Go to the Mosque" "Go to End of Road" "Don't Die". Here’s Mouhammad’s full message: ”Go to the Mosque Ammaria Hills . Drive past the Mosque (it is on your right); go to the END of the paved road. Here go left. Then, take the first right. Then you'll start to see the Edge to your left. Pick a spot along the edge and be CAREFUL CAREFUL, as several people died here recently.” The directions seemed crazy, but they worked smoothly. We even saw our first two camels at the end of the paved road. We saw zero cars or people after the Mosque Ammaria Hills. The Edge of the World (also called Jebel Fihrayn) is an unexpected and dramatic geological wonder in the rocky desert. The site earned its nickname because you have an uninterrupted view of the horizon, and it kinda looks like it. It’s a 1,131 m2 height cliff that lies some 100 km northwest of Riyadh and a great place to discover the breathtakingly spectacular views overlooking a deep valley and extending barren desert. It’s one of the most famous sights in Saudi Arabia, and for a good reason. These cliffs rise dramatically from the desert, stretching toward the sky like a great natural wall and the cliff face is 300 meters tall. Maybe more in some places. When we stand on top of them and look toward the horizon, it seems as if the sky is melting into the earth. At the Edge, we pulled out onto the edge of the Edge at several points, being careful not to get stuck – and not to drive ov
S10 E251 · Wed, January 18, 2023
SAUDI ARABIA: Road Tripping to the Edge of the World
Welcome back to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was the third day in Riyadh, and at 11 am, we left the apartment and our base for four nights. After a stop in a unique and impressive modern mall with a great water feature, I left the capital of Saudi Arabia with my travel friend, Cynthia, in our rental car to find the "Edge of the World". The Edge of the World Riyadh is on a plateau. And there’s a place on the edge of this plateau called ”Edge of the World”. You would normally book expensive tours – at up to $500+US per person, to go there. But we decided to self-drive. There are two access roads to the official point. One is only open on weekends (and not this day), and the other access was in bad condition and currently only good by 4WD. We got lucky that Cynthia has a local acquaintance from the CouchSurfing community, Mohammad. He told us how to get to the REAL Edge of the World. It is near, but not at the tourist spot. These directions included something like: "Go to the Mosque" "Go to End of Road" "Don't Die". Here’s Mouhammad’s full message: ”Go to the Mosque Ammaria Hills . Drive past the Mosque (it is on your right); go to the END of the paved road. Here go left. Then, take the first right. Then you'll start to see the Edge to your left. Pick a spot along the edge and be CAREFUL CAREFUL, as several people died here recently.” The directions seemed crazy, but they worked smoothly. We even saw our first two camels at the end of the paved road. We saw zero cars or people after the Mosque Ammaria Hills. The Edge of the World (also called Jebel Fihrayn) is an unexpected and dramatic geological wonder in the rocky desert. The site earned its nickname because you have an uninterrupted view of the horizon, and it kinda looks like it. It’s a 1,131 m2 height cliff that lies some 100 km northwest of Riyadh and a great place to discover the breathtakingly spectacular views overlooking a deep valley and extending barren desert. It’s one of the most famous sights in Saudi Arabia, and for a good reason. These cliffs rise dramatically from the desert, stretching toward the sky like a great natural wall and the cliff face is 300 meters tall. Maybe more in some places. When we stand on top of them and look toward the horizon, it seems as if the sky is melting into the earth. At the Edge, we pulled out onto the edge of the Edge at several points, being careful not to get stuck – an
S10 E250 · Sat, January 14, 2023
250 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now in Australia
Here are ten minutes where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life. I'm still in Tamborine Mountains near Brisbane, Australia. After my diary entry, there's an interview with me from this Monday with Mark Sutton on ABC Nightlife in Australia.
Fri, January 13, 2023
MAINE (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I’m Couchsurfing on a blueberry farm in Maine. This one was first released in April 2021.
S10 E249 · Thu, January 12, 2023
249 SAUDI ARABIA: The Good and The Bad
Saudi Arabia is a country that is known for its rich culture and history, as well as its modern developments and economic prosperity. But while the country has made economic and social progress in recent decades, it’s also important to recognize that every country has its own set of issues and challenges. I’ve started launching episodes about my visit to Saudi Arabia, and in the first one that came out on Tuesday, it may have sounded like there’s nothing bad about this country. And even though I loved my visit and met some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, there are still challenges. In this episode, I will share what I think is both good and bad about this country. THE GOOD ABOUT SAUDI ARABIA Let’s dive in and start with some of the things that are good about Saudi Arabia: GOOD: Culture and history Saudi Arabia is home to a number of historical and cultural sites that are of great importance to the country and the region. The city of Mecca is the holiest site in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It is also home to the Kaaba, a sacred stone building that is the focus of the annual hajj pilgrimage. Medina, another city in Saudi Arabia, is also considered a holy city and is the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad. These cities are of great significance to Muslims around the world and are a source of pride for the country. GOOD: Economy Saudi Arabia is a major player in the global economy, with a GDP of over $800 billion. The country is rich in natural resources, particularly oil, which accounts for a significant portion of its wealth. The government has also invested heavily in modernizing and diversifying the economy, with initiatives aimed at boosting tourism, technology, and other sectors. As a result, Saudi Arabia has a high standard of living and a strong infrastructure. GOOD: Education Education is a priority in Saudi Arabia, with the government investing heavily in the education sector. The country has a number of top-ranked universities, including King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, which are known for their research and innovation. The government also provides free education to all citizens, from primary school through to university. GOOD: Health care Saudi Arabia has a well-developed health care system, with a number of hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. The government invests heavily in the health care sector, providing free medical care to all citizens. The country is also home to a number of renowned medical fa
S10 E248 · Tue, January 10, 2023
248 SAUDI ARABIA: Discovering the Unique Charm of Riyadh
مرحبا بكم في المملكة العربية السعودية Join us as we explore the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history of KSA. From the towering sand dunes where we get stuck many times to the vibrant cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, and literally to the Edge of the World (yes, that is the name of a place in this country), I'll take you on a journey driving more than 4,000 km through one of the most misunderstood and least-visited countries in the world. Along the way, we'll meet some locals and experts who will share their insights and experiences, and delve into the customs, traditions, and daily life of the Saudi people. This is the first of many episodes from KSA, where we explore the capital, Riyadh and go quad biking in the Red Sand Dunes – after a struggle to catch the flight from Dubai. Road tripping with “Cynthia Globe” I’m travelling to Saudi Arabia with my good friend, Cynthia. She is a lawyer, a CouchSurfing Ambassador, and a big-time traveller – and calls herself “Cynthia Globe”. When I met her in her home state, Florida, I did an interview with her . We got along so well, that we ended our meeting with talking about going on a trip together. Maybe doing a “2.0 in Nairobi”. Fast forward just four months we meet again on the other side of the planet in Dubai. We are there because we booked a cruise going from Dubai to Cape Town, via Seychelles, Reunion, Madagascar, and a few other places. All in all, a cool cruise. But then the Omicron Variant of the Corona Virus was discovered in South Africa. It didn’t come from there; the South African scientists were just the first to find it. I guess they were just smarter than in other countries. Nevertheless, the whole southern part of Africa was hit by travel restrictions, and we had a feeling that it would affect our cruise. But Norwegian Cruise Line didn’t say anything about this. We heard several rumours of changes, but nothing from NCL. They didn’t even change it on their website, and just for fun, I tried calling them one day, to see if they were still selling it. And they were. Then as I was on my flight to Dubai a few days before departure, I got an email saying that it was cancelled. I did get all my money back and even a 25% discount on my next cruise, but still. They could have told us a long time before. Cynthia was also on her way to Dubai, and we ended up spending a few weeks there, and even spent several days going to the World Expo that was held in Dubai at the time. <p st
S9 E247 · Sat, January 07, 2023
247 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now in Tamborine Mountains Australia
Here are ten minutes where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life as I’ve just arrived to Tamborine Mountains near Brisbane.
Fri, January 06, 2023
CONNECTICUT (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I’m at a Couchsurfing CouchCrash called “ConnectiCOUCH” in Connecticut, USA. I learn about the Yankees, Colt revolvers and the magic of warm Connecticut hospitality. This one was first released in March 2021.
S9 E246 · Fri, December 30, 2022
246 VAGABOND DIARY: Right Now in Sydney, Australia
Here are ten minutes where I tell you what's been going on in my nomad life as I'm getting ready to celebrate New Year's Eve, watching the fireworks over Sydney Harbour.
Fri, December 30, 2022
THE PHILIPPINES (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I spend two days in the Philippines in ‘The Enchanted Farm’. The farm is much more than just agriculture. They have a wide range of social entrepreneurship projects, and there is also a university in the place where young people from poor families to educate themselves for free via scholarships. I also meet Rafael Dionisio, the founder and leader of MAD Travel, which arranges trips to Gawad Kalinga’s many projects. This one was first released in December 2016.
S9 E245 · Wed, December 28, 2022
245 INTERVIEW: Tony Giles Seeing the World as a Blind and Deaf Traveller
Breaking Barriers and Traveling the World Alone We’ve got one more conversation from Extraordinary Travel Festival , and I don’t think I’m offending any of my other guests by saying that I’ve saved the best for last. In fact, I’m sure they’d all agree. Because the guest today is not only an inspiration for us all and especially someone who would say, “oh, I can’t go there alone because of this, that, or the other”. 100% Blind and 80% Deaf Out of all the extreme travellers I met at the festival, my last guest in this miniseries with interviews from Armenia totally stands out. He’s very well-travelled – he had been to 128 UN Nations when I met him in October, but that’s not what makes him unique. Tony is totally blind and 80% deaf in both ears. But that doesn’t stop him from seeing the world. Most of the time, he travels alone. He doesn’t have a seeing-eye dog or an aid to warn him where there’s an obstacle or a hole in the pavement … or which local bus to get on, even in countries where most people don’t speak English. How and Why? The first time I heard of him, I thought of two questions: First of all, why? He can’t possibly get anything out of it when he can’t see the view. And secondly: How is that even possible? Listen to the episode to hear that Tony gets so much out of his travels – which aligns very well with the rest of us: Meeting the locals, and learning about their way of living and the sounds and the smells of the place. Everything except the one thing of being able to see the place. The Power of the Senses Tony has a special gift. He’s able to sense a room without being able to see it. And I test that when I ask him to describe the room we’re in. A room he’s never seen. Hear how he gets it spot-on. Tony the Author Tony has written and published three eBooks about his adventures: “Seeing the World My Way”, “Seeing the Americas My Way”, and “Seeing a Slice of Southern Africa My Way”. You can order the books on Tony’s website, TonyTheTraveller.com . He’s also a public speaker. See his TEDx talk here . Two more episodes this year That’s almost this for this episode and almost all for this year, except for a Flashback Friday from The Philippines and another raw and uncut Vagabond Diary from Sydney on the
S9 E244 · Sun, December 25, 2022
244 INTERVIEW: Going from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe with Barbs on Geography Now
Bringing the World to the Masses Today we’re speaking to the man behind the YouTube channel " Geography Now ". It’s a fun and informative destination for anyone interested in learning about the countries and territories of the world. The channel has a large and dedicated following with over 3 million subscribers and 400 million views. Each episode of "Geography Now" focuses on a specific country, providing an in-depth look at its culture, history, geography, and relationship with other countries. Paul Barbado aka Barbs started with Afghanistan and is getting closer to the last country, Zimbabwe. Making Geography Fun and Accessible for All Its approachable and entertaining style sets "Geography Now" apart from other educational channels. Paul's enthusiasm for his subject is infectious, and he presents complex information in a way that is both engaging and easy to understand. His use of humour and pop culture references adds an element of fun to the learning experience, making it a hit with viewers of all ages. In addition to its main series, "Geography Now" also offers bonus episodes on various topics, such as the geography of food, flags, or the history of cartography. These episodes provide a deeper look at specific aspects of geography and allow Paul and his team to delve into more specialized subjects. Overall, "Geography Now" is a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about the diverse and fascinating countries of the world. Whether you're a student, a teacher, or just someone with a love of geography, this channel has something to offer. The future for Paul Barbado Paul is getting closer to the last country, Zimbabwe, and he says that once he’s there, he wants to travel and see the world. “Honestly, I want to take a break. I’ve been talking about the world for about eight years, and it’s probably going to be nine or ten years by the time I’m done. Yeah, I want to take a break and see it. I’ve been talking about the world for so long; it’s about time to go out and actually see it. He also says that he wants to do travel videos from his trips. And I do believe that he’s already kind of doing it. He started doing episodes that he calls “GEO GO”, and since I met him, he actually did one from Armenia . These are also incredible. Email from a listener I have received an email from Spanish Berte, who wanted to let me know that my episodes from Cape Town and The Garden Route inspired he
S9 E243 · Sat, December 24, 2022
The Radio Vagabond Diary: Right Now in Koh Lanta
Here I tell you what has been going on in my life this week. Ten minutes. Raw and uncut.
Fri, December 23, 2022
DUBAI (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I’m in Dubai, UAE , for the first time. I visit The Jumeirah Mosque and see the Dubai Mall, which is the biggest mall in the world, and Burj Khalifa, the highest building in the world. This one was first released in November 2016.
S9 E242 · Tue, December 20, 2022
242 INTERVIEW: Meet the Three “193 Babies”, Romaine Welds, David Yang, and Odette Ricasa
Welcome to another episode, recorded at The Extraordinary Travel Festival in Armenia two months ago. And in this one, you can meet Romaine from Jamaica, David from Taiwan, and Odette from the Philippines. They have just completed the 193 UN Nations list and were all the first in their country to do so. Romaine Welds Romaine Welds is Jamaican-born and raised, and he migrated to the US in 2007. This was, in fact, his first time flying and travelling to a foreign country. Currently, Romaine lives in San Francisco and works full-time with an American airline, which has enabled him to travel the world. As a child, Romaine loved watching National Geographic shows, where he would dream himself away to far-away places. And never in a million years did he imagine that he would one day be accomplishing the goal of having visited all the countries in the world nor becoming the first Jamaican and Caribbean to do this. His last country was Antigua & Barbuda, even though Hurricane Fiona postponed it for a few weeks. Fiona was a powerful storm that caused massive damage and disruption across the Caribbean in September 2022. She left a trail of destruction, causing widespread flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage. And interrupted Romaine’s trip to Antigua & Barbuda. By the way, if you want to hear more about Romaine’s last country, I’ve done three episodes from there. It’s episodes 130-132 in your podcast app… Find them here . David Yang Our second guest is 57-year-old, David Yang. He’s from Taiwan and has worked in International Business Development in the consumer electronics, video gaming, and toys industry. He visited many countries as part of his job. He’s the first Taiwanese to travel to every country in the world, but he also lives in the US. He started to work on his remaining countries around 2016 after meeting a fellow traveller who convinced him to go for them all. At the time, he had a third of the countries to go to and completed the goal in July this year. Now he’s working on a new goal – to complete 300 of Travel Century Club’s list, and right now, he has about 19 left. The official TCC list of countries and territories has a total of 330 as of January 2022. So, I guess that he will go for the complete list after the 300. Odette Ricasa The last “193 baby” is 77-year-old Odette Ricasa, who became the first Filipino to travel to all the countries in the world as she arrived in
S9 E241 · Sun, December 18, 2022
241 INTERVIEW: Mette Ehlers Mikkelsen & Slawek Muturi
There are only three people who have visited every country twice. Gunnar Garfors from Norway is one, and one of our guests today, Slawek Muturi, is another one with that super rare accomplishment. In fact, he’s visited more than 150 countries three times. The other guest today is Mette Ehlers Mikkelsen, who is very close to visiting her last country. And she’s very unique too because she’s a single mother who travels with her children. Of the few people who can claim they have gone to every country in the world, only 10% are women – and only three of those women are mothers. Slawek Muturi Slawek has been travelling independently since he was a student as he took to the rails in Europe. His first long overland trip took place in 1989 as he travelled from Poland to Kenya in a Land Rover. Slawek is half Polish – half Kenyan, so this trip connected his two homelands. In 2009, he completed the quest of travelling to every country in the world. And since then, he has done it one more time. Slawek travels on a shoestring budget, and he likes to travel like a local and only carries a small backpack. Mette Ehlers Mikkelsen Mette is one of the most-travelled mothers in the world, and as mentioned, most of the time travelling with her three kids. A week after I met Mette in Armenia, she went to Somaliland with her two oldest kids, Lærke and Nicolai. That brought Lærke on 116 countries, one more than me – and I am not 19 years old like her. A few weeks later, Mette went to Eritrea with her youngest daughter, Ella. Next from Armenia In the next episode from Yerevan, Armenia, you can meet Romaine Welds, David Yang and the 77-year-old Odette Ricasa. Romaine from Jamaica, Odette from the Philippines, and David from Taiwan have two things in common. They all just completed the 193 UN Nations list and were the first in their country to do so. So, they were dubbed “The 193 Babies”, and you can meet them all in the next episode. My name is Palle Bo. See you.
S9 E240 · Sat, December 17, 2022
240 DIARY: Right Now in Koh Lanta, Thailand
This is an experiment. Simply ten minutes live on tape, telling you what's happening in my life right now – in Koh Lanta, Thailand. Raw and unedited. Please let me know if you like more of these. Comment on Facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond or send a voice message via WhatsApp or the Telbee app .
Fri, December 16, 2022
NORTH CAROLINA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I’m in High Point, North Carolina . A small city is known as The Furniture Capital of the World. Another thing that High Point is known for is producing the iconic American yellow school buses. This one was first released in September 2018.
S9 E239 · Wed, December 14, 2022
239 INTERVIEW: Boris Kester and Gustav ‘Gus1TheGo’ Rosted
My two guests in this episode are Boris Kester from the Netherlands and Gustav Rosted from Denmark. Both of them are really inspiring, even though they are so different. So, welcome to another interesting conversation from Extraordinary Travel Festival in Yerevan, Armenia. Boris Kester Boris has embarked on countless adventures around the world, has developed a habit of picking the least obvious paths, and loves the challenges that come with them. He believes that following his heart brings him the best travel experiences and encounters. He inspires travellers through his travel stories and pictures on TravelAdventures.org and is the author of the book The Long Road To Cullaville . Here, he recounts some of his most memorable adventures to reach his goal of visiting all 193 UN Nations in the world. Gustav Rosted The other guest in this episode is Gustav Rosted. This tall, super blond guy is a 30-year-old Danish traveller who has visited more than 180 countries so far. He is behind the popular YouTube channel Gus1TheGo with more than 281,000 subscribers and 73 million views as of December 2022. He was a promising professional football player and did play for a national team – not the Danish … but we’ll get to that. However, he had to stop his football career hold because of some injuries before it really started. Which send him into a midlife crisis in his early 20s… What to do now? He needed another passion project, and that ended up being travel. Gus did a video about the Extraordinary Travel Festival , which you can see on his YouTube channel, Gus1thego. You should really do that if you want to learn more about the event and meet some of the people here. Country Counters Ticking of Boxes? After the episode last week with Charles Veley , I had a listener make this comment on Facebook: ” Sure , this person has “been” to all of these countries … but has he really experienced it? Or just flown in and out of the airport and maybe stayed one night just to check off the boxes and say he’s been there ? That’s not my kind of travel at all but to each his own. I would muc
S9 E238 · Sat, December 10, 2022
238 INTERVIEW: Hitchhiking with Francis Tapon and Daniel Shachory
Welcome to another episode with a conversation from Extraordinary Travel Festival in Yerevan, Armenia. Already now, we’ve met Gunnar Garfors, Ildikó Szabó, and Charles Veley. Three of the few people who have visited every country in the world. One of them even did it twice. Today we will have a theme: Hitchhiking. Meet Francis Tapon and Daniel Shachory. Francis Tapon Francis did a talk at the Extraordinary Travel Festival called, “ Five Years of Nonstop Overland Travel To All 54 African Countries: Picking Up 3,000 Hitchhikers & A Bride ”. And with several TEDx talks , he knows what he’s doing when he’s on stage and we were in for a treat. His mother is from Chile, and his father from France, but Francis was born in San Francisco, so he was born with three passports – and almost destined to travel. He is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, and claims that he struggles with Italian, Portuguese, Arabic, and Russian. But I have a feeling he’s just modest. Having never been to Africa, he took a boat there and effectively burned it. He vowed not to return home until he had climbed the tallest peak in every African country. He expected that he could do it in three years, but his quest took five years to complete. He managed to get to the peak of 50 of the 54 countries. Also, he picked up 3,000 hitchhikers, found a bride, and nearly killed her and her brother. Now he’s in the process of writing a book with 54 chapters – one for each country. He’s also the author of Hike Your Own Hike and The Hidden Europe . And then he hosts a podcast called WanderLearn . Daniel Shachory From one person who has picked up a lot of hitchhikers to a guy you can find at the side of the road with his thumb in the air. Daniel Shachory from Los Angeles and MyThumbLife on Instagram and on YouTube . He’s on a quest to hitchhike in every country in the world. He does that half of his time – and then the other half he spends back in the United States as an Uber driver. But not just that. Here he’s trying to become the first Uber driver that has worked in every state. So, another crazy project. I met Daniel at lunch one day in Yerevan, and even though he’s not the most trav
Fri, December 09, 2022
SRI LANKA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit Sri Lanka and share five things I recommend to explore in the central and eastern parts of Sri Lanka : Pineapple Farm, Ridee Viharaya, Koneswaram Temple, Sunrise on the beach in Trincomalee and, Riding Bullock Carts and Canoe Catamaran in Habarana. This one was first released in September 2019.
S9 E237 · Tue, December 06, 2022
237 INTERVIEW: Charles Veley, The World’s Most Travelled Person?
Welcome back to another conversation with an extraordinary traveller. When I was in Yerevan, Armenia, I met some of the world’s most travelled people, and in this mini-series, all in December, you can get to meet many of them. Charles Veley is an American extreme traveller. Some people call him “The Godfather of Extreme Systematic Travel”, and according to Wikipedia , he can claim the title of the world's most-travelled person. But even Charles himself says that it depends on how you count it. He’s been to every UN Nation in the world and was the youngest ever to complete the Travelers' Century Club’s official list of countries and territories. That’s two of the lists out there – the UN list and TCC, but there are more. Now there’s also the Nomad Mania list , founded by a previous guest on The Radio Vagabond, Harry Mitsidis , and then Charles Veley’s own list, Most Traveled People (known as MTP). Next episode from Yerevan On Sunday we’re joined by Francis Tapon who visited every country in Africa without leaving the continent and tried to climb the highest peak in each country. And then he picked up 3,000 African hitchhikers. And more about hitchhiking when we speak with Daniel Shachory. He’s on a quest to hitchhike in every country in the world, and he will share some good tips and tricks on how to get a ride. My name is Palle Bo. See you.
S9 E236 · Sun, December 04, 2022
236 NTERVIEW: Gunnar Garfors and Ildikó Szabó
I’m back with fresh material. I know that I’ve been away a lot on that front this year, but now I’m back with new episodes from exciting destinations in the beginning of January. We start with a miniseries recorded in Yerevan, Armenia, in October. Here I attended the first-ever Extraordinary Travel Festival and got a chance to speak to some extraordinary travellers. You will get eight episodes between now and the new year. Two episodes every week – and you’ll still get flashback episodes every Friday. So, we’re going to be busy. Here are the people you can meet in the miniseries: Boris Kester, Charles Veley, Daniel Shachory, David Yang, Francis Tapon, Gus Rosted, Mette Ehlers Mikkelsen, Odette Ricasa, Paul Barbado, Romaine Welds, Slawek Muturi, and Tony Giles. But we start with Hungarian, Ildikó Szabó and Norwegian, Gunnar Garfors. Ildikó Szabó She was born and raised in the countryside of Hungary and was a late starter in travelling. She was 18 years old when she first left her home country for the first time, and it wasn’t until she was almost 22 when she first set foot on a plane. At the age of 25, she went on my first solo trip outside of Europe when she backpacked in China, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and the UAE. And then, she really caught the travel bug and decided to persuade a career in aviation. In 2018, at 36, she achieved her goal of visiting every country in the world as the first Hungarian and amongst one of the youngest female travellers achieving this milestone without any sponsorship. Gunnar Garfors Apart from being an anagram for Ungarn (Hungary), Gunnar is a journalist, public speaker and bestselling author who has visited every country twice. And he was the first person in the world to do that. He holds many records, but an interesting one is a Guinness World Record that he set in 2012 with Adrian Butterworth by being the first to visit five continents on the same day. Gunnar has written several books , with the first one called “ How I ran Out of Countries .” Garfors also writes on his travelblog, garfors.com . Like me, he’s worked in the radio industry for many years – in fact, we found out that we’ve attended the same radio conferences in the past. Now he’s funding his life and travels as a writer and a public speaker. <p style=
Fri, December 02, 2022
EL SALVADOR (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit El Salvador , the land of exquisite coffee and incredibly warm people. El Salvador has often gotten a bad reputation for being dangerous. In this week’s episode, I show you a different side to this beautiful country steeped in history and pupusas. This one was first released in January 2022.
Fri, November 25, 2022
CHINA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I get scammed in Beijing, China and visit The Great Wall of China. This one was first released in July 2017.
Fri, November 18, 2022
VIETNAM (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I visit Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and celebrate The Year of The Rooster. This one was first released in June 2017.
Fri, November 11, 2022
CAPE TOWN (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I go searching for Sugar – known from the Academy Award Winning documentary, Searching For Sugarman . When this was first released in February 2020 it was two episodes – but today, you will get both in one slightly longer episode.
Fri, November 04, 2022
GUATEMALA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I make a new friend. Andrés Thomas tells the story of how he ended up running a guesthouse in San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala . This one was first released in September 2021.
Fri, October 28, 2022
SENEGAL (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I’m heading from Banjul, The Gambia, to the beach town, Cap Skirring, in the southern part of Senegal . This one was first released in April 2019.
Fri, October 21, 2022
TORONTO (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I arrive in Toronto, Canada , with jetlag – and go on air. This one was first released in December 2017.
Fri, October 07, 2022
DURBAN (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I do something terrifying in Durban, South Africa . I was very nervous and out of breath, but I did it. Join me as I'm swinging in Durban. This one was first released in July 2020.
Fri, September 30, 2022
KUALA LUMPUR (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I played badminton in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia , with my host and got my ass kicked. This one was first released in February 2018.
Fri, September 23, 2022
LAOS (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I share my journey in Luang Prabang, Laos and how I visited the UXO Center, which tells the heartbreaking story of the unexploded bombs from The Vietnam War. This one was first released in May 2017.
Fri, September 16, 2022
CAPE TOWN (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I explore the top 10 things to see in Cape Town, South Africa and I get a surprise visit from my daughters all the way from Denmark. This one was first released in April 2020.
Fri, September 09, 2022
ETHIOPIA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia , in The Radio Vagabond's episode. I happen to be there when they celebrate the biggest religious event of the year – a celebration called Timkat. This one was first released in July 2019.
Sat, September 03, 2022
LESOTHO (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I almost (and only almost) went to Lesotho . It was like running a marathon in flip-flops. This one was first released in July 2020.
Fri, August 26, 2022
JAPAN (Flashback Friday)
Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond with my kids, Amanda and Clara, where we uncover myths about Japan. Before I start the episode, there’s one thing that I later found out we get wrong. It’s the thing about using phones on the trains. We say that they do use phones, but we should have said, “yes, they use phones, but never ever will you see a Japanese on a phone call on a train”. According to a local friend in Tokyo, this is not only frowned upon but even illegal. But it’s okay to look at your screen, be on social media and answer emails. Just no talking. This one was first released in October 2017. And with that: Welcome to Flashback Friday.
Fri, August 19, 2022
BAHAMAS (Flashback)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in this episode of The Radio Vagabond, where I meet Roger, who was born and raised in The Bahamas. He shares his story, life on the island and how he saw Hurricane Matthew. This one was first released in February 2018.
Fri, August 12, 2022
ATLANTA, USA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in Atlanta, where I visit Coca-Cola, CNN, and go to an Ed Sheeran concert where my phone dies before my Uber arrives – and I have no idea where I live. This one was first released in September 2018.
Fri, August 05, 2022
ALBANIA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in Albania, where I was working on becoming famous and visited the city of 1000 windows. This one was first released in October 2020.
S8 E235 · Wed, August 03, 2022
235 INTERVIEW: Ric Gazarian from Extraordinary Travel Festival
Ric Gazarian (aka Global Gaz ) is the co-founder of a brand-new festival for world travellers. Extraordinary Travel Festival is to be held in Yerevan, Armenia, October 14-16, 2022. In this episode, Ric tells us what to expect. If you want to go, you can get a 50 USD discount on your ticket by using "palle" as the code. See more on ExtraordinaryTravelFestival.com , and you should also listen to his own podcast, Counting Countries , where he interviews people on a quest to travel to all 193 UN countries.
Fri, July 29, 2022
SRI LANKA (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. In this episode, I am in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka and attended a cocktail party with beautiful traditional music and dancing. This one was first released in September 2019, not long after the horrible terror attack in Sri Lanka. So, we’re also going to be talking about that.
Fri, July 22, 2022
CAPE TOWN (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. In this episode, I arrive to one of my most favourite cities in the world, Cape Town. And this is also where I was inspired to start my life as a digital nomad. We begin with a visit to the hospital. This one was first released in February 2020.
Bonus · Sun, July 17, 2022
234 BONUS: Would You Rather?
As I was working on the next episodes from Saudi Arabia, I came across a recording from the car when I was driving across the country with Cynthia Rignanese – who calls herself “Cynthia Globe” because she travels so much. In fact, Saudi Arabia is her country number 124. She’s a lawyer from Florida and has her own law firm, which allows her to take a lot of time off to travel the globe. And this episode comes out just a few days before we meet again for another epic journey in four African countries. Ghana, Togo, Benin, and São Tomé & Príncipe. But that’s another story. PLAY THE GAME & TRY NOT TO HIT A CAMEL In this one, we play a game as we’re driving across the Saudi desert, trying to avoid hitting one of the many camels walking across the road from time to time. And the speedbumps. Oh my god, the speedbumps... They just come out of nowhere without any warning. The game basically goes like this: We take turns asking simply, “would you rather A or B questions”. And here they are so you can start thinking about what you would answer yourself. Would you rather go to the Arctics or Antarctica? The north- or the south pole? Would you rather go scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or do the Rickshaw Challenge , driving a tuk-tuk yourself for ten days in India? Would you rather spend a weekend in the seven-star luxury hotel, Burj Al Arab in Dubai, or in a glamping tent in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania? Would you rather ride a camel or an ostrich? Would you rather do the Trans-Siberian Railroad or go dog sledging in Eastern Greenland? MEET CYNTHIA - AGAIN I met Cynthia in Florida when I was there in 2021, and you might remember the episode where we talked about how she got into collecting passport stamps. If not, go back and listen to that one too. RIDING AN OSTRICH IS WRONG We’re having fun talking about the thrill of riding an ostrich in our conversation. But according to PETA UK , it is cruel to ride an ostrich. PETA stands for The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. An a
Fri, July 15, 2022
NEW YORK (Flashback Friday)
In this episode, I ask the same five questions to six New Yorkers. I also visited the top of the tallest building in the western hemisphere, One World Trade Center. This one was first released in November 2018.
S8 E233 · Wed, July 13, 2022
233 URUGUAY: Visiting a Winery and doing a Nomad Check of Montevideo
We’re back in Uruguay, and if you haven’t heard the first part of my visit to this little South American country, you should go back and listen to that one first. In that one, I arrived in Uruguay with a small group of nomad friends. We went on a tour of Montevideo, we went to prison, I shared a lot of facts about the country, I opened the history book, I talked about the weather, and then at the end of the episode, I went half an hour north of the capital and found a beautiful winery with the Italian sounding name, Pizzorno. VISITING A WINERY I’d just met Lucio Alonso when I left you at Pizzorno Family Estate. He was in the middle of telling us how he ended up working here as a winemaker at the age of just 22. When attending a wine conference in Brazil, he got a call from his old classmate, Francisco – the fourth generation at this winery. The vineyard is 21 hectares = 52 acres = 30 football fields (soccer fields) = 210.000 square meters. That’s enough – figure out how much that is in square feet. The Pizzorno family’s fourth-generation continues a family legacy, and the wines produced today by Pizzorno Family Estates represent a rich and prosperous land. The third generation Carlos Pizzorno is still in charge and has evolved production using modern vine cultivation and winemaking techniques. IS URUGUAYAN WINE ANY GOOD? If you’re like me, Uruguay might not be in your top ten countries when you think of good wine-producing countries. But it seems like that’s changing… that more and more people remember this little South American country. Lucio will talk about that in a minute… but first… LAW AND ORDER let’s look into some statistics to see if it’s a safe country. Crime rate The crime rate is relatively low, and one can visit the country without worrying about the crime other South American countries are known for. Taxis and means of transportation in Uruguay are reliable and safe. You don't even need to negotiate the price of the ride because all taxis use taximeters. Corruption With a score of 73/100, Uruguay once again leads the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) and ranks first in Latin America and in 18th place worldwide. For reference… less corruption than France at no. 22, the USA at no. 27 and South Korea at no. 32… and about the same as Australia, Belgium, and Japan also at no. 18. Denmark is no. 1 the least corrupt country in the world according to the Corruption Perceptions Index from Transparency International. Safety In general, Uruguay is safe, and it is the safest country to visit in entire Latin America. It is economically and politically stable. Even though it is so safe, you should watch out for petty crime in tourist landmarks and crowded areas. The crime rate is low, but pickpocketing and bag snatchin
S8 E232 · Mon, July 11, 2022
232 MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY: Liveable, Safe, Tolerant, Eco-Friendly & Beautiful
In this episode we’re going to visit a small country in South America. I’m on my way from Buenos Aires in Argentina with a small group of nomad friends that I’ve gotten to know from the Nomad Cruise. We’re going to be spending a few days in Montevideo and then the others are going back to Buenos Aires, but I’m staying a few days longer because I have an interesting appointment in the countryside. Something I’m also going to share with you here on the podcast. FACTS ABOUT URUGUAY HOW BIG AND HOW MANY PEOPLE? Around 3.5 million people live in Uruguay. With 181,000 km2 (69,000 square miles) Uruguay is the second-smallest country, and the smallest Spanish speaking country in South America. Montevideo is the capital andwith 1.7 million people, the country's largest city. WHERE IS IT? It shares borders with Argentina to the west and southwest and Brazil to the north and northeast. And then it’s bordering the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast and the river we’re crossing, Río de la Plata to the south. A MAINLY FLAT COUNTRY Much of the country consists of gently rolling land only a few hundred feet above sea level. Uruguay's highest point is Mount Cathedral at 514 meters (1,685 feet). RELIGION The majority of the population 58% of Uruguayans define themselves as Christian (47% Roman Catholic, 11% Protestant), and approximately 40% of the population says they have no religion. In the capital of Montevideo there’s also a small community of Jews. Church and state are officially separated more than a hundred years, since 1916. Religious discrimination is punishable by law, and the government generally respects people's religious freedom. DEMOCRATIC AND TOLERANT Uruguay is a democracy and ranks high on global measures of personal rights, tolerance, and inclusion issues, including its acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Actually, being gay was legalized all the way backin 1934. The country has legalized cannabis, same-sex marriage, and abortion. EAT MORE BEEF THAN ANYONE We know that Argentineans love their beef, but Uruguay consume the most beef per person in the whole world. URUGUAY HAS THE LONGEST NATIONAL ANTHEM IN THE WORLD When Uruguay achieved their independence in 1828, they needed a national anthem. The poet Francisco Esteban Acuña de Figueroa offered to write one. The anthem originally had 11 verses but since many of them were rather rude
Fri, July 08, 2022
Nomad Cruise from Spain to Greece (Flashback Friday)
Before this week’s flashback, I want to say two things. First of all, I celebrated an anniversary two days ago. Wednesday this week it was exactly six years ago I started my life as a full-time nomad. It’s so funny to think that when I left Denmark on July 6th, 2016, I thought I would be travelling for four years. Now, six years later I feel I’ve only just started. And the second thing: It’s about time you get something new – something you’ve never heard before. And you will get that next week. Monday you’ll get part one of my visit to Uruguay and already Wednesday you’ll get part two. I’ve been putting a lot of work into those episodes, and I’m introducing a few brand-new elements that I really hope you’re going to like. So, make sure you keep an eye on your podcast app next week. But that doesn’t mean that you won’t be getting a flashback every Friday. And this week, you can join me on board a cruise ship through the Mediterranean Sea with a bunch of amazing digital nomads. We’re going to walk the streets of Malta, enter a talent show, and sample some delicious wine at a boutique winery in Greece. This one was released for the first time in September 2020. Welcome to Flashback Friday.
Fri, July 01, 2022
Conakry, Guinea (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in Conakry, Guinea. This one was first released in May 2019.
Fri, June 24, 2022
Toronto, Canada (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in Toronto, Canada. This one was first released in December 2017.
Fri, June 17, 2022
Rabat, Morocco (Flashback Friday)
Welcome to Flashback Friday. Join me in Rabat, Morocco. This one was first released in January 2019.
S8 E231 · Mon, May 30, 2022
231 INTERVIEW: Ukrainian Orest Zub: From Digital Nomad to Urban War Reporter
Welcome to a special episode of The Radio Vagabond – recorded in May 2022. At a conference for digital nomads called NomadBase Live in Croatia, I met Orest Zub from Ukraine. He’s another digital nomad and a big part of the community Nomad Mania founded by our good mutual friend Harry Mitsidis . Orest have been to 129 countries so far in his ten years as a digital nomad. When the Russians invaded his country in February this year, he came back to Ukraine to help his country in the war. Not by being a soldier at the front line but by making videos showing the truth about what it looks like in his country, and what the war is doing to Ukraine. NOMAD BASE LIVE We were both attending the conference NomadBase Live – a fairly new thing organized by the same people who brought the world Nomad Cruise (that you heard me talk about many times before here on the podcast). When the global pandemic changed everything, they had to pivot and come up with new ideas. And one of them was creating NomadBase Live – a conference type event on land. This is their third but my first and it’s always great to meet old friends, make new ones and be a part of this community of likeminded people. On this NomadBase held in beautiful Primošten, Croatia we were 274 digital nomads from all over the world gathers to share experiences from our digital nomad, travelling lifestyle. OREST ZUB ON YOUTUBE In one of the videos on his YouTube channel , he’s driving to Kyiv with an experienced war correspondent, Rauli Virtanen. He’s a 73-year-old Finnish writer, freelance journalist, lecturer, and television producer. He’s also the first person who visited every country in the world – and for that a big inspiration for both Orest and myself. RAISING MONEY FOR AN ORPHANAGE It’s a tradition on NomadBase Live (and before that on every Nomad Cruise) that we have a charity dinner where we all chip in with donations to a good cause. And Orest was asked to find a children-specific charity in Ukraine that needs support in this crucial time. He found an orphanage in town Velykyi Lubin near Lviv in the western Ukraine where he lives. This orphanage hosts children from the surrounding areas and those who come from the war-torn eastern part of the country. At the conference Orest shows a video, he recorded at the orphan
S8 E230 · Thu, May 05, 2022
230 KENYA (4:4): Visiting a Maasai Village in Masai Mara
Welcome to part 4 of my mini-series about Kenya and The Masai Mara. Click here to go to part 1 , part 2 , and part 3 . After our exciting hot air balloon trip, I went to the Maassai village in the Mara. This was my last day in the Mara. I spent two nights in Lenchada Tourist Camp in the Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya. And when we were asked if we wanted to go for a visit to a real Maasai village, I was the only one in the group who was interested. So, I got a private tour for a few hours. WELCOMING MAASAI A young boy from the village picks me up, and after a short walk just outside the fence that surrounds their little village, I meet up with Sammy, who would be my guide for the tour. A group of eight tall slim young Maasai men stood in a half-circle in front of me, singing, dancing, and jumping. They all wore their attractive colourful Maasai shuka – an African blanket they traditionally wear as a sarong. It's thick enough to be used as a light blanket for chilly mornings and afternoons. Each Maasai does not wear the exact same colours, but most of them wear red because it symbolizes their culture, and they believe it scares wild animals away. JUMP JUMP JUMP They jump high, straight up in the air. Later I learned that the higher they can jump, the less dowry they pay to the woman's family before marriage. The young Maasai men then invited me to join the dance. First, they draped me in a red shuka – and had a laugh watching this pale middle-aged, slightly overweight Scandinavian dude trying to jump. In the moment, I felt I did pretty good but looking at the pictures, I can see that I barely left the ground. So, it would be expensive for me to get married in this culture. ONE BIG FAMILY In this village, there were 20 families with 200 people from the same grandfather. They do not intermarry in their village. As mentioned, they are a semi-nomadic tribe that stay in the same place for around nine years, and they move to another place when the houses are eaten by termites. They are polygamous – which means that the man can marry as many women as he likes (or can afford). SIX FACTS ABOUT THE MAASAI PEOPLE Here are some hardcore facts about the Maasai people. 1. Most Famous African Tribe The Maasai is an ethnic group living in northern, central and southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. They are among the best-known local populations internationally because they live in or near the many game parks of the African Great L
S8 E229 · Mon, May 02, 2022
229 KENYA (3:4): Hot Air Ballooning Over the Masai Mara
Welcome to part 3 of my mini-series about Kenya and The Masai Mara. Click here to go to part 1 and part 2 . I decided to splurge and go on an early morning hot air balloon safari – very early the morning after New Year’s Eve. I wanted to see the beautiful sunrise on the horizon of the savanna with exotic animals below me. So, after our game drive, I spoke to Francis who would arrange pickup for me just four hours after we entered 2022. Francis mentiones that the balloon will launch at 06 in the morning and take one hour. On landing we will be welcomed with a champagne bush breakfast. There will be plenty of room for take-off and landing, and he assured me that we would not disrupt any animals during the flight. He also told us to keep warm because it would get chilly. There would be no guarantee that we would see any animals as this was not during the migration season. It’s something that is not included in the package. It’s available as an extra option at 450 USD /408 Euros per person. So, it’s not cheap. This is how I justified the extra expense: In ten years, I would be able to remember the experience but not the price tag. After the briefing, Francis mentioned that he would pick me up at 4.20 am. This would not be an easy feat. For the first time since I was three years old, I had to go to bed before midnight on New Year’s Eve. THE RADIO VAGABOND LANGUAGE SCHOOL: SWAHILI Meanwhile, let’s learn to say a few words that will impress the locals when you get here. As you heard in the previous episodes in this mini-series, Kenyans have English as one of the two official languages. And since you probably understand what I’m saying now, let’s have a quick lesson in the other one: Swahili. You can hear the pronunciation on the podcast. Hello: Jambo Thank you: Asante sana You’re welcome: Karibu Okay: Sawa Don’t worry: Hakuna matata Note that no one says that in Kenya unless you are a tourist. The more common term is “Usijali” Friend: Rafiki Goodbye: Kwaheri OTHER INTERESTING FACTS: DANGEROUS ANIMALS Shane, who you had met the two previous episodes, also to
S8 E228 · Fri, April 29, 2022
228 KENYA (2:4): Attacked by an Angry Rhino in Masai Mara
THINGS TO DO IN NAIROBI In the last post, I was talking about Shane and Monica who I met in Nairobi. They both gave us tips on all the amazing stuff there’s to see around the country, but there’s also a lot to do in the capital. VISIT THE KAREN BLIXEN MUSEUM The museum is located in the town Karen at the Ngong Hills slopes just outside Nairobi. It was owned by Danish author Karen and her Swedish husband Baron. It became more famous after the renowned “Out of Africa” film. It’s open to the public and you can enjoy guided tours and lots of materials to buy. You can learn more here. DAVID SHELDRICK WILDLIFE TRUST David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is one of the largest and most successful orphan elephant rescue centres in the world. They have successfully cared for 282 elephants and here, you can also get to adopt a calf (baby elephant). NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK Nairobi National Park is a few minutes away from the city centre. You can see rhinos, zebras, giraffes, baboons, wildebeest, and many other animals against a backdrop of the city skyline. Learn more from their website. BOMAS OF KENYA This is a cultural village representing the 42 tribes of Kenya. If you want to learn about the ethnic tribes and history of the country, this a tour that you should not miss. You also get to learn about the clothing, dances, and economic activities of each tribe. You can also try diverse Kenyan cuisine at the Utamaduni Restaurant. Learn more here . THE GIRAFFE CENTRE The Giraffe Centre is run by the Kenya non-profit organisation, the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, whose main purpose is to educate Kenyan children about their environment and wild animals. They also give visitors and opportunity to come into close contact with the world’s tallest animal. I went there and spoke to Daniel Mutua the educator who shared lots of information about this majestic animal. When visiting the centre, you will get some pellets, walk on the platform, and get ready to feed the giraffes. David mentioned that the pellets are made from dry grasses, molasses, and corn. These act like snacks for the animal whose main food is grass, leaves and water. Kenya has three subspec
S8 E227 · Thu, April 28, 2022
227 KENYA (1:4): What to See in Two Perfect Weeks
Welcome to this mini-series about Kenya and Masai Mara. This is part 1 On December 31st, I was excited to go to Masai Mara. I went on a 5-hour drive from Nairobi, Kenya, to Masai Mara National Reserve (often referred to just as The Mara). I knew that the game drives would start early in the morning, and I would not be partying too hard for New Year. The two-night/three-day safari trip was partly made possible by Scenery Adventures Ltd, which is owned and operated by Monica Musungu. Scenery Adventures does inbound and outbound travel. They take visitors to Congo, Tanzania, Seychelles, Egypt, and many other places. I got to know Monica when we were in Berlin in March 2020, just as the Corona pandemic was beginning to rear its ugly head. We were both there for a big travel event called ITB , which was canceled days before the event. As we had our tickets ready, we decided to travel anyway and that’s how our paths crossed. MEETING THE TRAVEL CAMEL I also met Shane Dallas who I knew from the travel industry, and TBEX , which does conferences for travel content creators around the world. Shane is the conference director of TBEX Europe, Asia, and Africa. As I’m the co-host and producer of the TBEX podcast, Travel Matters , you can say that we’re colleagues. Shane has been traveling worldwide for years – calling himself and his travel blog “ The Travel Camel ”, but when he came to Kenya, he fell in love with the country and his wife, Maureen. He’s been living here for a number of years with her and their daughter. He knows a lot about this country, but he’s originally from Australia. It has been nine years since he went back to Australia. He is probably getting away from all the poisonous snakes and spiders. However, he misses his family, friends, cricket, and rugby. I asked Shane to give me some insights into what Kenya means to him. “Kenya is complex with more than 40 tribes, and each has its food, customs, and activities. I love it”. That morning, I finally met Dennis, my driver, in Nairobi for the next few days. We got on the van with an open roof which would come in handy when we went on game drives in the park. That way, we could stand up and get a good view of the wildlife for taking photos. We were a group of 7 or 8 – a few from Kenya, and besides me was a guy from San Francisco. Not only was I going on game drives, but I also decided to spend a little extra time by visit
S8 E226 · Fri, February 25, 2022
226 UKRAINE: Before the War in Europe
It’s a sad week for the world, Europe, and especially Ukraine – as Russia invaded the country in an unprovoked attack yesterday morning. So, I thought I would share a conversation I had during a walk with Ksenia from UkraineToGo . We walked through the beautiful city of Kyiv when I was there at the very beginning of my journey, in August 2016. This was at a time when Ukraine also was at war with Russia after they invaded Crimea. As you will hear, it was a love/hate relationship with their big brother from the east. On one hand, we talk about some very popular toilet paper with Putin’s face on them and on the other hand, a big monument called the Arch of Friendship – celebrating the friendship between the two nations. I wonder what the people of Ukraine think of that monument this week. I wonder what kind of history is being written this week and in the coming time. To be honest, I don’t see how this is going to end. That sanctions are going to make Putin think “this was a mistake; I pull my troops out”. Not likely. That the world and the Ukrainians just accept that Russia takes over this beautiful big European country with proud people that love their freedom and democracy. No, I don’t see that happening either. What I fear the most, is that it will end very bloody and escalate to even more countries. I feel so bad for the Ukrainian people who just want to live in peace. But also, for the regular Russian people who didn’t make this decision and will be suffering from what happens with the economic sanctions imposed by the world. All in all, this is a horrible situation.
S8 E225 · Tue, February 15, 2022
225 KATHMANDU, NEPAL: Nature, Massacre, Monkeys and Friendly People
काठमाडौंमा स्वागत छ WELCOME TO KATHMANDU Before going to Nepal, I’d been told that this country has some very friendly people – that show a genuine interest in who you are and where you’re from. And that was the case already in the taxi on the way from the airport to the city. In the car with Basu Rimal, he asked a lot about where I was from and what it was like there. He told me that he had been to Scandinavia. “I’ve been to Norway and Finland, but not Denmark yet. Scandinavia is really nice, I really liked it but it’s very cold.” Basu works in tourism and has a tour company called Nepalaya Treks And Expedition , where he does trekking in Himalaya. YOU DECIDED ON NEPAL In last week’s episode, I asked you where we should go. And there was a big majority in the votes that said that we should go to Nepal. Thank you all for being so active in saying your opinion on The Radio Vagabond on Facebook . I’m here with a good friend from Denmark, and we’re staying in a guest house called Ambassador Garden Home in a vibrant lively area called Thamel in the heart of Kathmandu. Thamel have the biggest tourist market in Nepal and the biggest business hub with a ton of guest houses, restaurants, shops, and bookstores. Obviously, I found Ambassador Garden Home on Hotels25.com . LANGUAGE IN NEPAL Nepal has 122 major languages. Nepali is the most common spoken by 78% of the population either as first or second language and has official language status. But the other 121 languages are all recognized national languages. PATAN DURBAR SQUARE Patan Durbar Square is situated at the centre of the city of Lalitpur , around 10 km from the city center of Kathmandu in Nepal . This square is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley , which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The Durbar Square is a marvel of Newar architecture . The square floor is tiled with red bricks. There are many temples in the area. There is also a bell beside the main temples. It’s a stunning and lively area. NEPAL EARTHQUAKE In April 2015 the square was heavily damaged by the big Nepal Earthquake . The earthquake struck near the city of Kathmandu in central Nepal. About 9,000 people were killed, many thousands more were injured, and more than
S8 E224 · Wed, February 09, 2022
224 BOLIVIA: Living Dangerously in La Paz
¡HOLA BOLIVIA! In this episode, we’re going to La Paz in Bolivia. First, we’re going over the city in what is called. ‘The most spectacular public transport system on the planet’ . Then we’re going to what is called ‘The most dangerous road on the planet’. And then we finish the best way possible by flying on a 1.5 km zipline more than 400 meters above a valley. EXPLORING BOLIVIA I arrived at La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, at 10 pm but unfortunately, everything was closed. Luckily, I found a street vendor where I bought water and snacks. I was exhausted, and I was looking forward to sleeping. I arrived in one of the tiniest and crummiest apartments that I have been to on my journey. I would be spending the next three nights there. This is the eighth-highest city in the world, 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above sea level. One thing I noticed was that the air was thin, due to the high elevation, and it was easy for one to get out of breath very quickly. I also felt that it was cold, so I had to bring out the jacket that I hadn’t worn in a long time. If you are reading this – and are a bit of a geek, you might say, “Hang on, Mr. Bo… La Paz is not the capital of Bolivia. That’s Sucre” . Well, yes and no. Let’s just get some facts straight. INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT LA PAZ La Paz is the De Facto Capital of Bolivia It’s the seat of government and the legislative and executive capital. The constitutional capital of Bolivia, Sucre , remains the judicial power. A Remarkable Location La Paz is in west-central Bolivia 68 km (42 mi) southeast of Lake Titicaca. The 3rd Most Populated City in Bolivia With an estimated 816,044 residents, La Paz is the third-most populous city in Bolivia. Its metropolitan area with a population of 2.3 million makes it the most populous urban area in Bolivia. The Illimani Mountains are an Incredible Backdrop of The City Overlooking the city is the towering, triple-peaked Illimani Mountain. Its peaks are always snow-covered and can be seen from many parts of the city. Highest Capital City Globally At an elevation of roughly 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above sea level, La Paz is the highest capital city in the world. It is one of the Seven Wonder Cities In May 2015, it was officially recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders Cities. This was a project aimed at highlighting the greatest cities. MY CABLE CAR La Paz is also home to the largest urban cable car network in the world – and it’s really something special. It’s called “ Mi Teleférico ” in Spanish, which translates to “My Cable Car”. It’s an aerial cable car urban transit system
S8 E223 · Wed, February 02, 2022
223 INTERVIEW: Digital Nomad Expert Marisa Meddin
Welcome to an interview episode of The Radio Vagabond. We’re talking to digital nomad expert Marisa Meddin from Atlanta, USA. I know that you guys listening love to travel and hear about adventures in far-away places. But a lot of you are also interested in the nomadic lifestyle. How is it even possible to sit on a beach somewhere in the world with your laptop and do your work? Well, that’s the picture often portrayed… that we sit on the beach with the laptop and an exotic cocktail within reach. Try to Google “Digital Nomad” and go to the image section. This is not the case. Rarely. Our guest today, Marisa Meddin, has a company with two partners that helps you become a digital nomad – so you also can travel the world. And they taps into that image by calling it Beach Commute . If you are interested in that, you should listen. Also, you should hit PLAY if you want to hear some great travel stories – like the time, she got invited to a wedding in Egypt and said yes to the invitation. Marisa Meddin has been a nomad for six years (a little bit longer than me at the time of the recording) and in this episode, you can hear how she became nomadic and how she makes it work. We're also going to be talking about communities, making friends and romance along the way, what it's like being a solo female traveller, and then she will share her thoughts about the good and the bad about living this lifestyle. USEFUL LINKS: Marisa also hosts a podcast about being a nomad, called Digital Nomad Experts . And if you want to hear the interview with me on that podcast click here . The company she co-founded is called Beach Commute and you can also find them on Facebook . Follow Marisa on Instagram , Facebook , and LinkedIn . All-in-all there is so much information, tips and tricks in this episode. Now listen and enjoy. My name is Palle Bo. And I gotta keep moving. See you.
S8 E222 · Wed, January 26, 2022
222 UAE: Visiting the Whole World in Dubai
In this episode, we travel to Dubai and meet the world at the Expo 2020 Dubai. From cancelled Cruises and great lessons and connections from the travel world. WORLD EXPO DUBAI I am back in Dubai for the Expo 2020 Dubai. My friend Jason spoke warmly about the event, and I was convinced. If you don’t remember, Jason is my Couchsurfing host from Connecticut, and he was also the main organizer of the CouchCrash I had the pleasure of attending a few years back. For the last 40 years (since 1982) Jason has attended every single World Expo and spoke warmly about the experience. I’d heard about the event, but I booked my trip and added it to my list when I heard that it was going to be in Dubai. I’ve always seen Dubai as a place that strives to do everything bigger and better, so this could only be over-the-top amazing. My trip was up to a good start. After the expo, I had planned to go to Cape Town via an exciting cruise. It was an 18-day cruise from Dubai - Oman - Seychelles - Madagascar- Mauritius - 3 places in South Africa - Cape Town. However, after many changes, the organizer decided to cancel the cruise altogether. Although I was disappointed, I just had to look for an alternative and decided to spend some more time at the expo. FACTS ABOUT EXPO 2020 DUBAI Before we walk through the expo doors, let’s start with some interesting hard-core facts about Expo 2020 Dubai: EXPOS have been held every five years Expos have been held every five years (more or less) across the globe since the first World Fair was held in London in 1851. Expo 2020 Dubai takes place from the beginning of October 2021 to the end of March 2022. Yes, it was postponed for a year because of the pandemic but kept the name Expo 2020 Dubai . This is an excellent fair that typically attracts more visitors than the FIFA World Cup and Olympics put together. The organizers in Dubai expected that a whopping 25 million people would visit the event despite concerns about the pandemic’s impact on global travel and tourism. Expos connect minds World Expos are a global gathering of nations to find solutions to the pressing challenges of our time. Dubai won the bid in 2013, beating competition from Russia, Turkey, and Brazil with the theme ”Connecting Minds, Creating the Future.” Brand new metro station The site is located in the Dubai South area, and they even made a dedicated metro station. The station is equipped to carry as many as 44,000 passengers per hour, per direction. The station is called Expo 2020, but after the Expo's six-month run, the station will be renamed District 2020 . The area of the expo is the size of 800 football fields The area of the expo was 4.4 km2 or 1.7 square miles, and that is around 800 football fields. T
S8 E221 · Thu, January 20, 2022
221 INTERVIEW: Meet Globetrotter & Cruise Director Eddy
In this episode, we have an interesting conversation with a public speaker, stand-up comedian, quizmaster, magician, mind reader, DJ, genius dancer and arguably one of the most entertaining things to come out of Wales since Tom Jones. His name is Eddy Jenkins but on the cruise ship we all know him as "Cruise Director Eddy". Hear how he travelled to nearly 100 countries and what it’s like working on a cruise ship.
S8 E220 · Wed, January 12, 2022
220 CARIBBEAN: Cruising in a Pandemic to Saint Lucia, Aruba & Curaçao
BONJOU FROM THE CARIBBEAN This week I'm going to take you to three different islands in the Caribbean. We will visit an independent UN nation Saint Lucia, then head over to two autonomous islands that are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. CRUISING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC In August 2021, I explored Saint Lucia through a 12-day cruise with Celebrity Cruiselines. I was still traveling through the pandemic and knew that this would impact the cruise. There are stark differences between how we traveled back then and now. For example, we all had to be fully vaccinated and present a negative COVID test. Instead of having a buffet lunch option during lunch, we had someone serving us lunch. However, we didn't have to wear a mask on the ship. There were also some excursion restrictions for some destinations that we visited, and I noticed that the itinerary had changed quite a bit. The original plan was that we would travel to six UN nations, and since I am one of those travelers that travel intending to visit every country in the world, this was one of the main attractions for me. I knew that this trip would see me mark my "visit 100 countries" goal. However, that didn't happen, and I was a bit disappointed. Nevertheless, I made peace that things will not always go according to plan during a global pandemic. If you listen to the podcast, you will notice that I have touched on this in previous episodes. And sometimes, plans change during travel, and we have to accept, find solutions and move on. When you're on a cruise like this, the cruise line offers a few different tours or excursions on the port days. And because my trip happened in August 2021, we had to book a trip with the cruise line for some of the stops. That was the only way they would let us off the ship. This is obviously to curb the spread of the virus and make sure that we only traveled with other fully vaccinated and tested people. And that was the case with Saint Lucia. DAY TRIPPING IN SAINT LUCIA I made my way through the checkpoints on the pier in Saint Lucia, and I managed to book a tram trip around the port city, the capital of Castries. The little yellow trolly train is run by a local company here in Saint Lucia, called Hibiscus Train . But then nature intervened. A rain cloud quickly came in and covered the melting hot sun almost instantly and we were almost left soaking wet on the pier (when we were sweating from the heat only moments before). Island life, hey. I grabbed a poncho and took shelter in a nearby building and waited for the downpour to subside. This kind of flash rain is a regular occurrence on these islands, as a quick cooling intermission to break up the heat. We travelled on a tram, well train, well, we weren’t on tracks, so it was just a type of car dressed as a locomotive. It ha
S8 E219 · Sat, January 08, 2022
219 INTERVIEW: Travel Blogger Legend, Travel Dave UK
I met up with my old friend Dave Brett in November, when we were both visiting World Travel Market in London. Dave is a solo adventure travel blogger and we've met several times here and on conferences around the world. We even went on a press trip together to Sri Lanka a few years ago – you might remember him singing on the bus in one of the episodes from there. So, it was about time we sat down and recorded a chat about travelling and how he works as a travel writer. Read his blog post from the slow train trip in the Pyrenees that Dave talks about in this episode – and see the YouTube video he made on that trip. Be sure to check out Dave's Blog, Travel Dave UK where he's travelling the world, one adventure at a time. His globe-trotting adventure travel blog featuring travel tips and advice, travel stories, travel videos and travel photography that will inspire your next trip abroad, and help you plan it too. To read more, please visit his ” About Travel Dave Page ”. Follow Travel Dave UK on social media: Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .
S8 E218 · Wed, January 05, 2022
218 EL SALVADOR: Danger, Intrigue, City Life, Warmth and War
BIENVENIDO A SAN SALVADOR The first leg of my trip in El Salvador is the capital San Salvador. I take a walking tour and connect with warm Salvadorans, indulging in coffee and pupusa. El Salvador's airport is around 40 minutes from the capital, the biggest city in this incredibly interesting country. I arrive in the country in the afternoon and spend the first night in the airport hotel because I don't want to arrive in the city after dark. This was a mistake. There isn't much to see, and I could have gone directly to the city. I get up bright and early and climb into a “chicken bus”. This is a convenient and cheap way to travel in some countries. Travelling from the airport to San Salvador is only 61 cents. #DontSkipElSalvador El Salvador is great, and you shouldn’t skip it. With fewer tourists than in other Central American countries, you have more space to explore. I considered skipping my visit to San Salvador because this is a country with beautiful nature, which was what I was here to see. I discover there is a lot to see in the capital and decide to go and I am happy I made that decision. Though the adventure and beauty of El Salvador remain in the countryside, you get to explore both the city life El Salvador has to offer as well as the picturesque beaches and villages in more remote areas. When I get to the city, I hail a taxi – and have yet another conversation in broken Spanish. He takes me to the hotel I booked through Hotels25.com . I chose a small, wonderful little place called Hotel Santa Elena. EL SALVADOR SAFETY CONCERNS Many people say El Salvador is a dangerous place, another reason I nearly steered clear of San Salvador. Marked as red on Travel Risk Map.com , El Salvador is the fifty-first most dangerous country in the world. It's all about using common sense, a local, Edwin, tells me. Pickpockets aren’t a risk, but dark alleys and isolated areas should be avoided. FREE WALKING TOUR IN SAN SALVADOR As you know, I love embarking on free walking tours when I get to a new city. A walking tour is a great way to get a two- or three-hour overview of a city and bookmark some places you want to go back to and see more of it. Edwin E. Carrillo is the owner and operations manager of EC Tours El Salvador , a company he started six years ago that offers walking tours of San Salvador, volcano tours, hikes, and more. They were the first company to offer free walking tours in Central America. Post-tour, I speak to Edwin and Estefany Hernandez from EC Tours on the third floor of a parking garage. The garage overlooks Plaza Morazan and the big, beautiful building holding the national theatre. What started as an Airbnb for Ed
S7 E217 · Thu, November 11, 2021
217 MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA: From Dangerous City to Hipster Holiday Hotspot
3D/BINAURAL AUDIO In parts of this episode, I used a special recording technique. Some call it binaural audio; some spatial audio and I normally just say 3D audio. This technique creates a three-dimensional audio effect that brings out so much more detail and depth than regular stereo (where the sound comes from only left and right). So, put on your headphones and give this episode a listen to get the full experience. Levántate y brilla desde Colombia Well, before I landed in Colombia, I had a few difficulties boarding my flight in Madrid, Spain. I wasn’t in a hurry to get on the plane as I already booked my seat online. So, to avoid standing in line, I just sat around until there were hardly any people left. That turned out to be a mistake – and something that would almost make me miss my flight. This is the story we’re starting with. Only so you can learn from my mistake. And there’s a solution to my problem and a great travel tip at the end of that. PRE-FLIGHT TURBULENCE Prior to arriving at the airport, I made sure that I had everything in order. I got my Covid test, filled out all the immigration forms for entering Colombia and was pretty sure that I has everything sorted. But then when I got to the gate (as one of the last people to board) I was asked for a return ticket or an onward ticket as proof that I wouldn’t overstay my visit in Colombia. And I didn’t have any of that. I told the boarding gate official that I had visited the website of the government of Colombia and followed the steps described and nowhere did it say that I had to have a return or onward ticket. He said he was following orders, and that I had to buy either a return or onward ticket – right then and there. Then, when he saw that I was one of the last in the line and he was about to close the gate, he just casually (without any empathy) said: “I suppose you cannot fly, sir”. And then he spoke in Spanish to some of the other passengers in a similar situation. I was totally stressed out and quickly got on Skyscanner.com to desperately buy a ticket anywhere out of Colombia so he would let me on the plane. At the same time, worried that he would give my ticket to someone else. To be honest this is such a rookie mistake from me. I’ve experienced a similar situation before in my time as a nomad. I guess I’ve just gotten a bit rusty during Covid… RADIO VAGABOND TRAVEL TIP #1 Not all, but some countries, do require that you have an onward ticket. Why is this? Well, countries want to make sure that you don’t overstay the set amount of time you can be in their country. It’s also to prevent illegal immigration and also because they want to confirm that you have enough money to actually buy a ticket and leave the country. Honestly, these are all very valid reasons. The airlines are held responsible and are required to check for proof of onward travel. They d
S7 E216 · Wed, October 27, 2021
216 FLORIDA: Rolling Uphill with Globetrotting Lady Lawyer Cynthia
A warm hello from sunny Florida, USA. The glorious thing about the CouchSurfing community is that you get to make friends all over the world. In fact, the community is so warm that you also get to meet their friends (and friends of friends), too. When I CouchSurfed through Connecticut I got to know Jason and the ConnectiCouch crew. When I came to Florida, I asked him if they knew of anyone’s couch I could crash on when I’m here. The answer was “ Yes, you absolutely must meet Cynthia when you’re in Florida! ”. So, after making contact with her we arranged to meet at the beautiful Lake Wales, smack in the middle of Florida. She lives close by, and I told her I would wait for her on a lakeside bench. When I arrived, I saw a woman sitting on a nearby bench wearing a South African cowboy hat. Something told me this was Cynthia. Of course, it was her. We exchanged warm Florida greetings and I immediately put her to task by asking her to tell me some interesting facts about where we were. INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THIS PART OF FLORIDA 1. LAKE WAILES WAS A BEACH Cynthia tells me that when the dinosaurs were roaming the earth, the area that is now Lake Wales was actually a beach, so the geology of the region is very unique from the rest of Florida. 2. WALES TOWN/WAILES LAKE The town of Lake Wales is spelt differently from the actual lake of Lake Wailes. In the 1800s the town was served and given the name Lake Wales. Then, in the early 1900s when the area was plotted, they named the lake, Lake Wailes. 3. RURAL 30 years ago, the town only had 10,000 people and one traffic light. Today, they have around 18,000 people and a few more traffic lights. 4. CENTRAL Lake Wales is very centrally located. It is about an hour south of Orlando and close to four hours from Miami. Each coastline is about an hour east/west. Cynthia wears a necklace that is a world map as a reminder of her spirit of adventure. She has travelled to 117 countries so far, all 50 US states, and isn’t planning on stopping anytime soon. We were talking about cool it was to meet up at the suggestion of our mutual CouchSurfing friends. “ For me, CouchSurfing isn’t about the couch it’s about the people you meet along the way. I have been blessed to meet over 1100 people in person. I have been CouchSurfing for a long time, and I am actually one of the CouchSurfing ambassadors for the United States, together with Jason and three others. We really believe in the power of community and connecting the world one person at a time ”. ROLLING UP SPOOK HILL After our lakeside chat/meet ‘n greet, Cynthia and I got into our cars and headed for Spook Hill , a famous attraction in this part of Florida
S7 E215 · Wed, October 20, 2021
215 RIO DE JANEIRO: Samba, Singing and Nomads Giving Back
Uma recepção calorosa from Rio de Janeiro My first Sunday morning in Rio gave me the quintessential Brazilian experience: chilling on a packed Copacabana beach listening to traditional samba music performed by a group of local friends sitting around a breakfast table. It didn't seem like these people were an organised band, and they weren't doing it to make money from tips. I just got the feeling that they were doing it for the love of samba. How can you not have a smile on your face when you find yourself experiencing this beauty on the world's most iconic beach only a few minutes’ walk from where you stay? What a city! The night before, I also got to hear some Brazilian samba. I teamed up with a friend of mine, Shannon from Los Angeles, and asked some locals where we could find a unique samba experience. SATURDAY NIGHT SAMBA We were given insiders information on where to find a tiny samba bar known only to locals. When we arrived, we couldn't believe just how authentic this place was. It was a small bar – kinda like a bodega. The band was not on a stage; they were just sitting around a table with their instruments and drinks. The place was packed, and we were standing around their table in a circle. It was a truly unique experience. After the band put down their instruments in favour of their drinks, we stepped outside onto the street and walked a bit until we came across another very local place where they had a karaoke night. It didn't have any windows, so people walking by could hear the not-so-great 'singers' attempting their versions of famous songs. Shannon's face lit up, and with a big smile, she said, "Hey Palle, let's go in and get a drink". The thing is, Shannon "Sangin' Diva" Pearson is a professional singer. She began her professional career at the age of 15, doing studio work around Los Angeles. Over the years, she's had the privilege of sharing the stage as a backing singer for artists like Natalie Cole, George Duke, Stanley Clark, Al Jarreau, Patti Labelle, Chaka Khan, Evelyn Champagne King, Sean "P-diddy" Combs, Kelis, Leona Lewis, Katy Perry, and many others. She's also appeared on TV shows like Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel, America's Got Talent, and even How I Met Your Mother. As a solo artist, she's performed all over the world as Sangindiva Shannon . And now this singing diva was about to have her Brazilian debut in a not-so-fancy little karaoke bar in Rio de Janeiro. The people in there had no idea what was about to happen. Shannon was almost jumping in her seat and smiled like a kid in a candy store when she was flipping through the song folder to pick a song. She then went up to the lady controlling the show and pointed at a song.
S7 E214 · Wed, October 13, 2021
214 SRI LANKA - Revisited
SUNRISE ON THE BEACH Welcome to an episode from Sri Lanka. This is a rerun and a mix of two of my episodes from here. I visited the island in 2019, just before the pandemic shot the world (and Sri Lanka) down. Now that everything is slowly opening again, I wanted to remind you of the beauties of this country and its people. As you’re joining us in this episode, we’re staying at a hotel called Pigeon Island Beach Resort at the eastern part of the island. It’s literally on the beach just north of Trincomalee. The next morning I got up at 5 am so I could go to the beach facing east and record a time-lapse as the sun was rising. Much to my dislike, eleven young men were walking into my shot. Then I realized that they were pulling a rope. They were dragging a net full of fish out of the water, and I went over there and helped them pull it for a while. Someone later told me that when tourists do that, they share a few of the fish with the people that have helped them. I didn’t stay to the very end, so I never got my fish, because I needed to go and get ready for the next day of exploring. I want to go back and spend at least a week at Pigeon Island Beach Resort. Especially when I saw that they have a Scuba Diving Centre, and it’s just been too long since I’ve been scuba diving. But the itinerary didn’t give me time for that, so I guess that gives me another reason to come back to Sri Lanka. FACTS ABOUT WHERE WE ARE The highest point in Sri Lanka is Mount Pedro, reaching 2,524 meters above sea level. With over 400 waterfalls, Sri Lanka has perhaps the largest number of waterfalls of any country in the world, in comparison to its size. Bambarakanda Falls is the tallest waterfall in the country, with a height of 263 meters. There are 22 national parks and 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. CONTROLLING BULLS IN A FORREST NEAR HABARANA It was time to head down to Habarana 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Trincomalee. This is where we’re staying tonight and also where we’re going into nature. When we get close to Habarana, we leave the paved road and on a dirt road get to a small clearing in the forest. We about to go deep into the forest on small Bullock Carts. Four people in each cart with two white bulls dragging us. I was in front with the guy steering the cart and controlling the bulls. He had commands for left, right, stop, and go faster. The bulls seemed quite lazy, but he was sitting right behind them, and if he swung his leg just a little bit, he would give them a gentle kick in the balls. And that would make them go fast. Halfway he gave me control of the cart and jumped off. So, there I was, controlling a bullock cart on a dirt road in a forest in Sri Lanka. Now that was a first for me. And no, I didn’t kick any balls. WATCH TOWER AT T
S7 E213 · Thu, October 07, 2021
213 NEW YORK: Close to Home with Scott Gurian
Hey from The Big Apple I started my adventure in the Big Apple sitting in a park in Brooklyn on a Saturday morning watching small kids and grown-ups playing football – yes, as a European, this is what I call the game where someone kicks a round ball with their feet. I'm waiting to meet up with my friend Scott Gurian. Even though we'd never met prior, we do consider each other friends. Scott is a fellow veteran travel podcaster and one of the best in the business. He's the guy from the Far from Home podcast you must have heard me talk about many times here on the Radio Vagabond travel podcast. Scott planned to spend his Saturday with me in Brooklyn, Queens, and New York showing me around some interesting places in his hood while we chatted and got to know each other. Scott lives in nearby Jersey, just across the Hudson River, so we're Close to Home for Scott today. As we walked over to Scott's car — a nice big new Toyota — I immediately joked that it was very different from the small, old car that played a big part in the first season of his podcast . FAR FROM HOME Scott participated in the Mongol Rally and drove a tiny, beaten out Nissan Micra stick shift across Europe and Asia about five years ago for an epic 18,000 mile (29,000 km). He did this crazy adventure from the UK to Mongolia with his brother and two friends – and after that, he decided to drive back in the same car. The first season of Far from Home is outstanding and got me hooked on the podcast long before we knew each other. I highly recommend listening to it if you haven't already. Also, watch a few clips of his journey to experience the trials and tribulations first-hand. Naturally, he has so many memorable stories and anecdotes from that trip, so I wanted to find out which stand out most in his memory. "Oh, so many. Driving across Iran with my brother and two friends (as Americans and Brits) was amazing; the friendliness of the people was memorable. Also, travelling through 'untouched' countries in central Asia like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, etc., was excellent. Seeing Cappadocia in Turkey with its hot air balloons was also amazing. And, of course, Mongolia is incredible with its vast open spaces and extraordinary scenery. It took us about seven weeks to travel from the UK to Mongolia, so as you can imagine, I have many incredible memories from that trip." Scott wanted to see more of the world, so instead of flying back to Europe (like any sane human would), he decided to drive back to explore more countries and regions, like Siberi
S7 E212 · Wed, September 29, 2021
212 BALI: Expensive Cuppa Cat Poop Coffee
OM SUASTIASTU FROM BALI Before I tell you about drinking the world's most expensive coffee made from beans that have passed through a cat and pooped out, let's kick off this week's episode with an Balinese language lesson. THE RADIO VAGABOND LANGUAGE SCHOOL: BALINESE I always try to learn a few words and phrases when I visit a new place. For today's The Radio Vagabond language school lesson, we'll learn essential Balinese phrases: Hello: Om suastiastu Good morning: Rahajeng semeng My name is Palle: Wastan tiang Palle Thank you: Suksuma I’M IN BALI, BABY Bali is an island province in Indonesia, so obviously, they speak Indonesian, but they also have their own language – Balinese. Despite practising the basics above, I still managed to mess up s uksuma (thank you) when I met Putu, our local guide. Luckily for me, Putu was a good guy and didn't make me feel silly. FUN WITH NAMES Putu explained a few funny things regarding people's names on the island of Bali. In general, Balinese people name their children depending on the order they are born, and the names are the same for both males and females: The firstborn child is named Wayan, Putu, or Gede. The second is named Made or Kadek. The third child goes by Nyoman or Komang. And the fourth is named Ketut – like the old wise Balinese man in Eat, Pray, Love (which translates to" little banana") So, what do they call their fifth child, you may ask? Well, they simply start over again and name him or her Wayan, Putu or Gede. Anyway, together with a few friends, we asked Putu (a firstborn) to take us around to some interesting places in Bali. But before we explore, let's learn more about this beautiful island. 7 FACTS ABOUT BALI DIGITAL NOMAD HOTSPOT Bali is a small, well-known beautiful island in Indonesia (Southeast Asia). The capital, Denpasar , is the island's largest city and home to the international airport. But the most well-known Balinese places are probably Ubud (in the centre of the island) and the beach town of Canggu (on the western part of the island). Both are hotspots for digital nomads like me. HINDUISM IN A MUSLIM COUNTRY Bali is the only Hindu-majority province in Muslim-majority Indonesia. 86.9% of the population are devoted to Balinese Hinduism. BALI IS A SMALL ISLAND Bali is 95 miles (153 km) from east to west and only 69 miles (112 km) from north to south. It has a population of 4.3 million people. TOURISM IS VERY IMPORTANT Pre-Covid, they had almost 6.3 million tourists stop by every year. Tourism is the beating heart of their economy, as around 80% of the island's economy depends on touri
S7 E211 · Fri, September 24, 2021
211 INTERVIEW: Mark Wolters World
Meet Mark Wolters of the Youtube channel, Wolters World . For 12 years he's been giving us honest travel advice on different places around the world. If you're going somewhere there's a good chance that he's done a few videos from the place. woltersworld.com facebook.com/woltersworld twitter.com/woltersworld
S7 E210 · Wed, September 15, 2021
210 DOMINICA: Smack My Ass and Take Me to Bed
An ass-slapping hello from Dominica Before we kick off this episode, I have a suggestion: Get your headphones on! 3D AUDIO RECORDING If you prefer to read about my awesome adventures here on my travel blog rather than listening to my sultry voice in my travel podcast, that’s awesome. But...you’re kind of missing out on the true Radio Vagabond experience – hear me out... When doing my travel podcast episodes, I try really hard to create an immersive audio experience for the benefit of my loyal listeners. I record a lot of live-action elements and add music, interviews, and diegetic sounds for an up-close and personal listening experience. For example, after reading this blog post I highly recommend you give this episode a listen as I used a special binaural recording technique . It’s also known as 3D recording, so I suggest you put on headphones for this one to get the best experience. Ready? Let’s jump into it. My name is Palle Bo, and this is The Radio Vagabond episode 210. Welcome to Dominica in the Caribbean Sea. HANGING WITH MY BEACHES IN ANTIGUA Before I got to the island of Dominica, I revisited another one of my favourite islands in the region where I spent a week prior – the beautiful Antigua in the island nation Antigua and Barbuda . Since I have already seen every corner of the island known for its 365 beaches, I decided to do a trip around the island on a catamaran ship and see the beaches that way. The trip was amazing. We took a long stop at one of the beaches where we got to snorkel in the corals for a few hours. I absolutely love this place and the people. They are so chill and have a great sense of humour, perfectly encapsulated by our hilarious tour guide. If you haven’t heard the three episodes from the last time I was here, I highly encourage you to go back and listen to them. But not right now because we’re about to arrive in Dominica. DELIGHTFUL DOMINICA When I saw in the cruise itinerary that we were going to visit Dominica , I thought it was the Dominican Republic . But Dominica is not the Dominican Republic – it’s a separate island and independent country over 1,000 km (600 miles) away in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The official name of the country is The Commonwealth of Dominica, but people mostly refer to it simply as Dominica. It was named by Christopher Columbus after the Spanish word for Sunday, the day of the week on which he first spotted it. Our cruise ship docked in the capital city of Roseau, located on the western side of the island. And the island is small: only 47 km (29 miles) from top to bottom a
S7 E209 · Sat, September 11, 2021
209 NEW YORK: Remembering 9/11 Twenty Years Later
It is exactly twenty years after the tragic events in Manhattan, New York. And since I was there a few days before the anniversary and stayed at an Airbnb that was there when the Twin Towers came down, I decided to make a special episode for us all to remember how it affected our worlds.
S7 E207 · Fri, September 10, 2021
207 GUATEMALA: Lake Life, Headless Volcano, and Cooperatives
Buenos días from Guatemala. After getting an Uber from where I lived in Zone 10 to the bus station in Guatemala City, I took a 3.5-hour bus trip headed West to Lake Atitlán. MEETING ANDRÉS As you heard in the interview episode with Siobhan last week, we got to know each other when she was organising the Digital Nomads Beyond 50 online summit, where I was one of the speakers. One of the other speakers was an American writer, Andrés, who has also worked in radio for many years. I met him in real life for the first time in San Lucas Tolimán on the shore of Lake Atitlán. Andrés is writing a book – or should I say a literary project, because it's so much more than just a book. Actually, Andrés likes to call it "the book that is writing him". He's living in San Lucas Tolimán on Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. Here he runs a small guest house , and when I planned to visit Guatemala, I decided to come and spend some time here. We quickly connected, and I feel I've made a friend for life. ARRIVING IN SAN LUCAS TOLIMÁN San Lucas Tolimán is a small town of 17,000 people. It sits on the south-eastern shore of Lake Atitlán – Lago de Atitlán. There are 11 towns and villages around Lake Atitlan, and the best way to visit them is to get on a small boat. It's cheap and by far the fastest way. A few days later, Siobhan joined the little nomad community in San Lucas on a beautiful Sunday. She arrived by bus from the airport in Guatemala City later in the afternoon. Since she would end up in Panajachel on the other side of the lake, we went to pick her up and decided to make a day of it. Andrés and I decided to take a day trip to visit a few other places on the lake's eastern shore. Together with his dog Catzij (who follows him everywhere), we jumped on a " lancha " – a small boat. BOATING LAKE ATITLÁN The trip was amazing; we saw so many locals enjoying a typical relaxing Sunday by the lake. The water is a little cold, but Andrés tells me there are a few hot baths around the area. Our first stop was San Antonio Palopó , a small town with a few cooperatives that Andrés wanted to show me. The first one was right on the shore where the lancha dropped us off — a chocolate factory where I got to meet Elias
S7 E208 · Thu, September 09, 2021
208 GUATEMALA: American Writer Andrés, Runs a Guesthouse
Welcome back to the second half of my day with Andrés at various places around Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. If you haven’t heard the first half, you should go back and listen to that one first. We’re in Panajachel in the northern part of the lake. While waiting for Siobhan to arrive, Andrés and I stopped for a slow lunch in the heart of the town. As it turns out, Siobhan arrived later than expected when it was getting dark, and the last regular lancha/boat had left. But Andrés managed to call someone to pick us up in Pana and take us back to San Lucas. While sitting at the pier waiting for the boat, Andrés told me how he ended up running an Airbnb in Guatemala. GUESTHOUSE IN GUATEMALA “ It all began in 1987 when I visited Honduras for the first time at the invitation of a priest who was critical about US policy in Central America. He invited us to protest the USA embassy by pouring blood on the walls as a metaphor for the bloody policies and bloodshed US policies were having on Central America at the time. I was critical of US policy in South and Central America as my uncle was imprisoned and my cousin was killed by Ronald Reagan’s Contras defending the revolution of Nicaragua. ” After being involved in another protest the following year in Guatemala, Andrés was caught and deported back to the USA. At a talk in Washington DC, he met Narda, a woman from Honduras who gave a talk. After he returned to Honduras to visit her, a true romance blossomed between them. The two dated long-distance, on and off for 13 years. But just as Andrés was getting into telling me the actual way he ended up in Guatemala, our boat arrived. A DOG’S LIFE We then made our way back to San Lucas Tolimán, and the guesthouse Andrés runs. He calls it Casa Catzij named after his wonderful dog, Catzij. She used to be a street dog but found out that she gets a lot of attention and good food with Andrés. You can take the dog out of the streets, but you can’t really take the street out of the dog. So, she still runs around San Lucas Tolimán on her own, and it seems like everyone in town and around the lake knows her. She joined us on the day trip, and every time we strolled around town, rarely on a leash. One day when we were walking, a friend of André’s was driving by and rolled down the window to say hi. And Catzij knows her too, so she jumped through the window of the car onto her lap in the driver’s seat. And she’s not a small dog. CASA CATZIJ Andrés, Siobhan, Catzij, and I eventually arrived at Casa Catzij where we met Alexa, a guest who regularly lives here for months at a time on each visit. There is a lot of “hygge” here (a Danish word for cosiness famous around the world). Andrés even has the book about hygge on his bookshelf. And together in the living room around the fireplace with a lot of hygge, we sat down to continue the story on how Andrés ended up running a
S7 E206 · Wed, September 01, 2021
206 US VIRGIN ISLANDS: Danish and Hamilton History
I boarded the Celebrity Cruise ship, Equinox, on the pier in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with my cabin-roomie, Siobhan – that I featured in the latest episode. My name is Palle Bo. Welcome back to all new episodes of The Radio Vagabond. This is Season 7, episode 206, and today we're going to St. Croix – one of the US Virgin Islands. CRUISING IN A PANDEMIC This episode is recorded just a few days ago, as cruising is starting up again after the pandemic. And they are taking so many precautions for our safety. As we all know (from the beginning of the pandemic), a cruise ship is not the best place to be if there's a Coronavirus outbreak. They require that all passengers are fully vaccinated, and on top of that, we all need to have a Covid test to board. Plus, they are sailing with less than half as many passengers as they have the capacity for. Also, as I mentioned in the latest episode a few days ago, they changed the itinerary, and then at some ports, we're only allowed to leave the ship on port days if we go on one of their excursions. Everything is to prevent any cases of Covid on the ship. So, we're probably relatively safe – and thank God (even though it could make this podcast go viral). WELCOME TO SAINT CROIX As we set foot on land at the first stop on the cruise, we're greeted by local dancers, a DJ, and some guys on stilts. It's a special place for me as a Dane because the US Virgin Islands used to be a part of my home country, Denmark. But let’s start with seven facts about where we are: 1. YOU STILL SEE A BIT OF DENMARK HERE Up until March 1917, they were called the Danish West Indies, and still, there is a lot of Danish history here. Like location names. The street sign in Kings Street also has the Danish name Kongensgade. There's also a Kirkegade (Church Street). Today, I'm visiting Frederiksted and Christiansted – also very typical names for Danish kings. 2. A VERY BIG REAL ESTATE DEAL Denmark sold the islands for 25 million USD in gold (around 554 million USD in current money). Someone might call it "a very big real estate deal"... 3. THE CAPITAL IS NOT ON THE BIGGEST ISLAND St. Croix is the largest of the islands in the territory. But the capital, Charlotte Amalie, is located on St. Thomas. 4. THE LAST VIRGIN Most people know that there are three main US Virgin Islands, but not that many years ago, a fourth was added: tiny Water Island, located off the coast of St. Thomas. And it is tiny – less than one square mile (around two square kilometres), and the USA bought it for a cool $10,000, making it what locals playfully call "The Last Virgin." 5. HALF OF THE POPULATION IS ON SAINT CROIX The population of St. Croix is a bit more than 50,000 – almost half of the populations on the islands. 6. AN ISLAND WITH A LITTLE MOUNTAIN The highest point of St. Croix is Mount Eagle, at 355
S7 E205 · Mon, August 30, 2021
205 INTERVIEW: Siobhan is an Unintentional Digital Nomad Beyond 50
Welcome back to all-new episodes of The Radio Vagabond podcast. I hope you’ve enjoyed the flashback episodes; I’ve given you this month. But now we’re about to start Season 7 – a season that will be different in so many ways. The next four months, I’ll take you around the globe … to Andorra, Bali, Brazil, Chile, Dominica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Jordan, Saint Lucia, Uruguay, a few places in the United States, and then we’ll be in St. Croix – one of the US Virgin Islands in the first one in a few days… That’s a part of a Caribbean Cruise, that I’m on right now – as I’m saying these words. In fact, I’m recording this in the cabin on the good ship, Celebrity Equinox, with a view of the Caribbean Sea. It’s a cabin that I’m sharing with today’s guest. Her name is Siobhan Farr and she’s the “spark originator” aka founder of the summit and community called Digital Nomads Beyond 50. Join her Facebook Group . Enjoy my conversation with her, and at the end of it, you can also hear a bit of my upcoming cruise – that got changed at the last minute.
Bonus · Sat, August 28, 2021
FLASHBACK: Belgrade, Serbia
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Belgrade in Serbia and was recorded in August 2016. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/004-serbia/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Trailer · Fri, August 27, 2021
TRAILER: Season 7 Starts in a Few Days
Next week, we’re back with all new episodes of The Radio Vagabond, as we start Season 7 in a few days – a season that will be different in so many ways. The next four months, I’ll take you around the globe … to Andorra, Bali, Brazil, Chile, Dominica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Jordan, Saint Lucia, Uruguay, a few places in the United States, and then we’ll be in St. Croix – one of the US Virgin Islands. As always you will get travel episodes on Wednesdays and then a few interview episodes in the weekends. And in fact, we kick it off already Monday with a special episode where you get to meet my roomy on a Caribbean Cruise. Her name is Siobhan Farr and she’s the “spark originator” aka founder of the summit and community called Digital Nomads Beyond 50.
Bonus · Fri, August 27, 2021
FLASHBACK: North Carolina
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Asheville and Greensboro in North Carolina and was recorded in September 2017. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/091-north-carolina/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Thu, August 26, 2021
FLASHBACK: Cap Skirring, Senegal
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Cap Skirring in Senegal and was recorded in January 2018. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/121-cap-skirring/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Wed, August 25, 2021
FLASHBACK: Philillippines
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from the Philippines and was recorded in October 2016. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/010-philippines-1/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Tue, August 24, 2021
FLASHBACK: Antigua & Barbuda
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Antigua in the Caribbean and was recorded in May 2019. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/130-antigua/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Mon, August 23, 2021
FLASHBACK: Kosovo
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Kosovo and was recorded in April 2018. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/174-kosovo-is-a-beautiful-little-country-with-a-lot-of-history/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Sun, August 22, 2021
FLASHBACK: Cape Town
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is about the Oscar-winning documentary with Steven “Sugar” and was recorded in January 2018 in Cape Town. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/148-finding-sugar-in-cape-town/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Sat, August 21, 2021
FLASHBACK: Abu Dhabi, UAE
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Abu Dhabi, UAE and was recorded in September 2016. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/007-abu-dhabi/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Fri, August 20, 2021
FLASHBACK: The Bahamas
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Bahamas and was recorded in June 2017 EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/055-bahamas/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Thu, August 19, 2021
FLASHBACK: Pattaya, Thailand
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Pattaya in Thailand and was recorded in December 2016 EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/027-pattaya/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Wed, August 18, 2021
FLASHBACK: Jeju Island, South Korea
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Jeju Island, South Korea and was recorded in March 2017. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/042-south-korea/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Tue, August 17, 2021
FLASHBACK: Atlanta
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from Atlanta and was recorded in August 2017. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/083-atlanta/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Mon, August 16, 2021
FLASHBACK: Nomad Cruise
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. This episode is from The Nomad Cruise from Malaga to Athens and was recorded in April 2018. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/170-journey-meet-249-nomads-wheres-wally/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
S6 E204 · Wed, August 11, 2021
204 FLORIDA, USA: Hemingway’s Key West and Magical Orlando
ZIM-ZALA-BIM FROM FLORIDA Welcome to the season 6 finale of The Radio Vagabond travel podcast. In the true spirit of season finales, this one is extra-long and exciting. First, I travel to Key West and visit Ernest Hemingway’s 6-toed cats. Then, I make my way to Orlando for something truly magical. UNLOCKING KEY WEST Key West is the southernmost point of the United States, and as I mentioned in the previous Radio Vagabond episode from Cancún , it is also the closest point to Cuba. It sits at the end of the Florida Keys as a series of hundreds of small islands spanning more than 100 miles (160 km) from one end to the other. The drive takes roughly 2.5 hours from end-to-end but you could make a full day of it and stop at some interesting places along the way if you’re in the mood for discovery. Key West is famous for its watersports, lively nightlife, amazing beaches, historic sites, and its pastel coloured conch-style architecture . Walking around Key West is probably the best way to see it. You get to see some intriguing homes, courtyards, and gardens while enjoying an adult beverage, great food, and live music. You can start in the center of town at the Key West City Cemetery where you can get a glimpse of the island city’s past and its morbid sense of humor, as exhibited by gravestones that read, " At least I know where he's sleeping tonight " and " I told you I was sick ". Duval Street is one of the most energetic strips of shops, bars, and cafes anywhere in the world that is host to the famous Sloppy Joe’s bar , a favorite hangout of famed American author, Ernest Hemingway . The tormented writer lived on the island in the 1930’s and did a lot of his writing here (roughly 60% of his life’s work) — when he wasn’t getting sloppy-drunk at Sloppy Joe’s. HEMINGWAY & KEY WEST The author’s home is now converted into one of the biggest attractions on the island: the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum . The house is now occupied by over 56 cats, and the cat theme is a special feature of the house. Hemingway was given a white six-toed cat by a ship’s captain and some of the cats who live on the museum grounds now are actual descendants of that original cat, named Snow White. Key West is a small island, and it is absolutely possible that many of the cats on the island are related. Touring the house and the office where Hemingway did his writing was very interes
S6 E203 · Wed, July 28, 2021
203 MEXICO: Is Cancún too Americanised?
Hola from Cancún, Mexico In this episode, I visit one of the most visited and touristy places in Mexico: Cancún on the Caribbean coast of the country because, why not? Let’s get into the fiesta spirit and kick off with a classic pub quiz question: what’s closer to Cuba: Key West, Florida, or Cancún? If you look at a map, Cancún appears the closest to Cuba, right? Wrong. In fact, Key West is 151 km (94 miles) from the closest coast of Cuba, and Cancún comes in 2nd place at 206 km (128 miles). Now drink! After nearly missing my flight to Cancún due to the airport flight gate being in Spanish, I soon found myself in the air sipping on a travel-sized Cuba Libre to get into the vibe. After a little while, I looked out the window to see my next destination: a beautiful white sandy coastline with palm trees met with a crystal-clear ocean. The excitement was real. TOUCHDOWN IN CANCÚN The first two items on my list of things to do in Cancún were to visit a local art museum and go scuba diving. The only issue I had was to decide which to do first (#firstworldproblems). Being in complete holiday relax mode, I struggled to make up my mind so I decided to do both — at the same time. But first… 7 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT CANCÚN You Won’t Burn Your Feet on the Beach You know how you burn your feet when you walk on a tropical beach without sandals somewhere in the world? Well, not here in Cancún. The 14-mile-long shimmering white sand beach is actually not made out of sand as we know it. It’s actually crushed coral, meaning it will naturally feel cool underneath bare feet – no matter how hot the weather. Only Three People Lived Here Cancún is a major tourist destination that attracts a whopping 700,000 people every year, which is almost as many people as locals. Today, Cancún has a population of around 888,797 people. But this has not always been the case. In 1970, the official population was only 3. Not 300 or 3,000. No, only 3 people, and they were the caretakers of a coconut plantation. Now, it’s completely different. The city currently has 4,674 hotels and around 30,000 hotel rooms. Cancún Has a Huge Mexican Flag If you’re in the buzzing hotel zone, you will notice an enormous Mexican flag – or as they call it here, gran Bandera Mexicana . It’s made out of the same material used to make parachutes (probably to make it lighter, but it’s still quite heavy). The flag itself weighs 228 kg (503 pounds) and took 40 soldiers to raise up a 105-meter (344ft) flagpole. This is something you can see in other places in Mexico, as it’s part of a program which started in 1999, called “ banderas monumentales ”, Spanish for "monumental flags". They’re a collection of tall flagpoles located throughout Mexico. The Beach Was Destroyed <
S6 E202 · Wed, July 21, 2021
202 MEXICO: More Adventures with the Locals in Monterrey
BIENVENIDO DE NUEVO A MEXICO When I last spoke to you, I was mid-hike with Luis through to the Lastanzuela waterfalls. As we continue traversing the slippery landscape on our hike, I ask Luis about his favourite part about living in Monterrey. "The best part is that you can be in the city and you can also go hiking. Monterrey means 'mountain kingdom'. You have a lot to do here." That's certainly been my experience so far. I became curious as Luis had actually asked me what had made me decide to come to Monterrey. "Monterrey has a lot of business tourism, we don't have a lot of international tourism," he offered in response to his previous query. I TRUSTED A FELLOW NOMAD As a traveller and nomad, I am lucky enough to meet people who are always making recommendations of where to travel to and what there is to discover in these different cities around the world. I also have many people invite me to come to visit when I'm in the area. Then I put a star on my map as a reminder of a new destination to travel to. So while I was in Texas, I noticed that I'd starred Monterrey, but for the life of me, I couldn't remember who had made the recommendation. I was delighted someone had – because it's not a well-known travel destination and it had turned out to be really wonderful. It's an exciting city with a very cool historic downtown area, and just right outside of the city, there are many beautiful nature hikes and walks visitors can take. The reason I decided to save Monterrey as a destination came back to me when I got a message on Facebook. As it happens, I met a guy called Esteban in Bosnia. His journey is a fascinating one, and you'll get to learn more about him a little later on. BACK TO THE HIKE Despite feeling super out of breath, we find ourselves at the first waterfall, and it is simply beautiful. Even though we've gone on a foggy day, Luis says that during the summer months, you'll find people swimming everywhere here, and you can get your own free 'hydro massage." While I generally enjoy a hike, this one was a little tough for me, and sadly I did slip on the rock, hurt my ass (and my pride). But, don't get me wrong, it was worth it to see the absolute beauty of the waterfalls. Definitely make time to go there, especially in the summer months. MEXICAN FOOD WINS OUT OVER A LIFE ON THE ROAD In the latest episode, Luis had mentioned his passion for travelling but told me that if he ever left, he would just miss Mexican food way too much. Since I spent the day trekking with Luis, he has given up the guiding gig and didn't go travelling after all. His love for the craft of Mexican food eventually outweighed Luis' desire to travel, and he opened his own restaurant with his girlfriend and brother. I, unfortunately, have
S6 E201 · Thu, July 15, 2021
201 MEXICO: Not Many Tourists in Monterrey
After my last adventure in San Antonio at Tejas Rodeo , I began to make my way to the US/Mexican border on my way to Monterrey , the capital city of the Northeastern Mexican state called Nuevo León . I hop into an Uber where I manage to communicate a little in broken Spanish to my driver, who couldn't speak any English. Thankfully my host spoke English, but I was looking forward to practising my Spanish with the locals. FREE WALKING TOUR MONTERREY In order to immerse myself into the city's culture as quickly as possible, I decided to attend a free walking tour. Before I get into the sights and sounds of this new city, I need to mention before leaving San Antonio, I visited the Alamo and the River Walk , which is a 15-mile long winding waterway that offers visitors loads of options in the way of food and shopping. Sadly, I didn't have too much recorded for those two visits as I didn't really get a chance to run into a local who could share much of the history. So, imagine my surprise when I met Brent before the walking tour here. And he's a guide himself – from San Antonio. SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK I told Brent about the last few spots I visited in San Antonio, and I was gifted with some really great insights, especially about the River Walk. "The river is the whole reason the city began in that region because it was called Yaniguana, meaning 'refreshing waters'…." When Brent isn't proudly showing people around his wonderful city, he has a full-time job in finance. He began guiding because it offered him a creative outlet and a way to meet people from all over the world, so we got on just perfectly.Brent went on to tell me that… "San Antonio is the 7th largest city in the US, in terms of population. We're around 1.4 million people in the urban area. Urban downtown, we are ranked 31st in the US. What really sets it apart is the history you have there, in terms of what took place on the land but also the history that you see every day walking on the streets. We've become the top tourist section in Texas because of the things people can see and do there. Austin is making a great stretch towards that" We went on to speak about the music and the unique weirdness that made up Austin, another great Texan City, and Brent told me more about the differences between San Antonio and Austin. Specifically that San Antonio number 1 industry is ranching and cattle drives. Brent is a great guy, and if you ever find yourself in San Antonio, contact <a href= "https://www.amig
S6 E200 · Wed, July 07, 2021
200 TEXAS: Literally My First Rodeo
YEE-HAW FROM TEJAS – RODEO TEXAS STYLE As I was preparing to leave my housesit in Lockhart , I had one more thing I just had to do before leaving the great state of Texas! So I drove myself to San Antonio to a spot a little north of the city to see a Tejas Rodeo. A sporting event that happened every Saturday night making up a very important part of San Antonio culture. I was lucky enough to be invited backstage to see the whole event up close and personal by the co-founder of Tejas Rodeo , Yancey James who was more than happy to teach me all about this exciting sport. Yes, a sport! There’s even a World Championship each year. Yancey explained: “They’ll take the top 15 cowboys in the world and they will compete for 10 straight days to crown a champion. There is a world champion in each division.” He went on to tell me that I would even see some of those 15 cowboys at the event that evening. Before I continue with the story, I also wanted to commemorate this my 200th episode. So if you’re near a bottle of champagne or a snifter of whiskey, join me in celebrating this big anniversary for The Radio Vagabond podcast! Yee-Haw! It’s Rodeo time. NOW BACK TO YANCEY JAMES AND TEJAS RODEO Standing backstage I was able to see the arena with the grandstands behind it. Next to me was a booth with 10-15 small cattle. They were for the roping event which would happen later. Another had some sheep which were for the children to ride and then behind me was a round arena with some cowgirls warming up their horses for the running of the barrel event later that evening. Scattered around backstage and the grounds, in general, was a hustle and bustle of cars, excited people, horse cars and there was an air of excitement that was tangible. Everyone was wearing their cowboy hats and those big belt buckles you always see cowboys wear in the movies. Of course, there were also the bulls in another booth, scraping the ground looking pretty mean and scary. Before everything really kicked off I had the opportunity to chat with Yancey who explained that they had held their first rodeo in 2006 and that over the years it had just evolved into this great event venue that was loved by everyone who loved rodeo. The venue is just far enough out of San Antonio to make visitors feel like they’re out in the country. Yancey went on to explain that gates open at 5.30, and with vendors and the gift shop, among other attractions the crowd is kept quite busy until the official start of the event at 7.30 pm. And boy does it start off with a bang! The arena is flooded with riders circling the venue with flags, bathed in colourful lights and cheered on by the crowd. In the background, you can hear a trumpet announcing the
S6 E199 · Wed, June 30, 2021
199 TEXAS: Drummer, Storyteller, and Texan Paul Weyland
Welcome to the second half of my drive in Texas with my old buddy, Paul Weyland. We’re in the hill country north of Austin, and Paul will tell me a lot of interesting stories about this area, Austin, and Texas in general. And as you will find out, Paul is a talker and a great storyteller, so this episode is going to run a bit longer than the normal episodes because I simply didn’t know what to take out. So, please enjoy.
S6 E198 · Wed, June 23, 2021
198 LOCKHART, TX: Housesitting with Deadly Snakes and Noisy Roosters
Cock-a-doodle-doo from Lockhart, Texas After my wonderful time in Houston being shown around by my good friend Doug Harris, I headed to my next destination in the state of Texas. My GPS led me to the middle of nowhere in rural farmland Texas where I will be staying alone for the next few days. Well, not entirely alone: this area has loads of coral snakes and if they bite you, you can die. Oh, and my new neighbours are apparently deaf so they wouldn’t even be able to hear my death screams if I ever crossed a hungry snake looking to taste my delicate Danish skin. Quite a welcome, right? SSSSSNAKES IN LOCKHART Mary and Charley own this charming country house in rural Lockhart, a small city south of Austin. They’re going away for a few days and need someone to take care of their cats, house, and plants. So, they asked me to be their trusted house-sitter. While showing me around and giving me strict instructions on what to do and where everything is, they also tell me a bit about the dangers out here in the countryside of Texas. They have some animals roaming around that I’m not used to from when I lived in the countryside of Denmark. Like coral snakes when you step out the door, Mary tells me. “When you walk out the door, be sure to always look out as we have had to kill coral snakes on two separate occasions right here on our porch. They are very, very poisonous. They have tiny mouths, so they have to get you real’ good for it to be dangerous, but still, be careful. And they’re very pretty: black, red, and yellow.” Pretty is one way to describe them. This guy on YouTube describes them as “...the most venomous snake in the United States and they have a very potent neurotoxin, more potent than any of the rattlesnakes around Texas, and you can die by the paralysis of your diaphragm: basically, you suffocate to death”. Delightful. Well, no big deal for Mary and Charley apparently, as they “just kill them” sweet Mary says very casually. Charley adds that I can just leave them alone or kill them too if I want to… “that’s what the shovel is for.” During all this, I was thinking to myself: “I’ve never killed a coral snake before, and I don’t really want to start my coral snake-killing spree now. And I wonder how long I will have to live if I get bitten living out here all by myself?”. But they are pretty, very small, and they must bite me in a soft spot of skin like my hand or my bare feet. Thank God there aren’t any bigger, more dangerous snakes around here. Oh, there are? “There are also rattlesnakes around here and cayotes,” says Charley. Oh, great. Rattlesnakes. Even though Mary tries to calm me down by saying that they haven’t encountered one in ages. To which Charley was qu
S6 E197 · Wed, June 16, 2021
197 HOUSTON, TX: History, Funeral Museum, BBQ, and One Huge Church
Hello again from Houston, Texas. Welcome to the second half of my day with Doug Harris — a proud Houstonian and old friend who is taking me around his beloved city. If you missed the release of Part I last week then be sure to give it a listen to get up to speed with my time in Houston with Doug Harris. Let’s jump back into it. LAKEWOOD CHURCH Doug and I continue our adventures through the city in Doug’s car, and he takes me to a popular site in the city: Lakewood Church. The building was previously called the Summit (subsequently changed to Compact Center before becoming Lakewood Church), a 17,000-seater venue that used to be the home ground for the Houston Rockets NBA team. It is also where Doug saw ZZ Top and Aerosmith perform live a few years prior, but now it is a very large place for worship. Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen are on all the social media platforms: there’s an app, a podcast, and a very slick website where they also live stream that includes a webshop with books from Joel and his wife Victoria, and his mother Dodie. HOLY FATHER AND HIS SON The church was founded by Joel’s father, Paster John Osteen, and Joel worked in the background as a TV producer up until his father passed away. When that happened, he stepped up and assumed the role of Senior Pastor at Lakewood Church. I went to their website and saw a video from a sermon a few weeks ago. It does not look or sound like a regular church. As Doug said, it’s an arena with 17,000 seats that starts with a band on stage with lights and a cheering audience. The production itself is very professional. It’s like watching X-Factor or a big award show with several camera angles. Then Joel and his wife take the stage. With 17,000 people in the church arena and I don’t know how many listening on Sirius XM satellite radio in North America, and a global audience watching the live stream, it’s certainly not your average church experience. It is very different from what I grew up with in Denmark, where there would be just a handful of people in my local church on a regular Sunday. TRADITIONAL TEXAS BBQ Doug then took me to one of his favourite places for lunch, Charlies BBQ , where I got to taste some real Texan barbecue. He’s a regular there and he introduces me to some of the staff, making me feel welcome and special. We sat down at the grill and the guy behind it who happens to be the owner, Fote Demires, recommended I try the brisket and sausage as they are the most popular choices (apart from the ribs of course). He tells me that brisket is a staple in Texas, and if you head further east, they enjoy pulled pork. After consuming a big plate of various tasty BBQ flavours, I carry on my chat with Fote. “We’v
S6 E196 · Wed, June 09, 2021
196 HOUSTON, TX: Creative Animal Making Noise
Welcome back to Houston, Texas. After leaving my new friends Jeanie and Big Ed in their trailer park in Houston, I jumped back into my sexy hired sports car to see an old friend of mine, Doug Harris. We made plans to meet at his office. I got to know Doug as a Broadcast Marketing Consultant for his company Creative Animal . For the past 20 years, he has also been running Noisemaker Communications . Here, he and his team work with businesses that want to make some noise and grab some attention. Doug is known for his crazy, creative, noise-making ideas. For instance, when one of the Star Wars films was about to premiere, he came up with the idea to offer $1,000 to the first listener that would legally change their name to Obi-Wan Kenobe. That got them some attention for his client's radio station, and the idea was later copied by stations all over. And I remember him telling me about his all-time favourite publicity stunt that never saw the light of day as the client got cold feet. He represented an electric razor company and pitched the idea of taking out a full-page ad in the newspaper offering Fidel Castro $1 million to shave his beard with their electric razor. The client was worried – what if the leader of communist Cuba actually took a capitalist bribe to shave his famous beard? It's ideas like these that pop up in the mind of this man that you're about to meet. So, strap in… MEETING AN OLD FRIEND IN HOUSTON, TEXAS " Houston is a cruel, crazy town on a filthy river in East Texas with no zoning laws and a culture of sex, money and violence. It's a shabby, sprawling metropolis ruled by brazen women, crooked cops and super-rich pansexual cowboys who live by the code of the West – which can mean just about anything you need it to mean, in a pinch. " These are words by famous American journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson . After receiving a warm and friendly welcome from my old friend, we jumped into his car and immediately began reminiscing. Doug and I met at a NAB radio event in London years ago and ended up sharing a hotel room "purely in the interest of camaraderie and economics" . Our paths again crossed in Mumbai a few years later when the Indian government had just launched independent radio. We've certainly been to some interesting places together. And here we are together again in Doug's hometown of Houston. Doug tells me a few interesting facts about Houston, such as it is home to one of the finest medical centres in the world, Texas Medical Center, which receives many patients from all over the w
S6 E195 · Wed, June 02, 2021
195 TEXAS, USA: "Houston, We Have a Podcast"
Welcome back to Texas. In this episode, I'm taking you to the 4th biggest city in the USA — Houston. Here, I'm visiting one of the most iconic places in the city that really put Houston on the map when NASA started going to space. I also get to stay with two Texans in a trailer park. But first, I needed a car to get me there. And I thought I might as well go there in style. TURO CAR HIRE I'm in Cedar Park in the northern part of Austin to pick up my rental car. It's in a beautiful residential neighbourhood with nicely trimmed lawns. My Uber drops me off at one of the houses where I meet Gary, the car owner. I bet you're wondering why I'm getting a car at a private home and not at Hertz or Avis or one of the other big rental car companies. So, let me explain — pay close attention because this is a cool travel tip: I'm using Turo . Turo is like Airbnb for rental cars. It's an online platform where people can rent out their car to strangers. It's a great alternative to traditional car-renting companies. The owners, like Gary, list their cars with Turo and renters like me can search the site and rent them for daily prices set by the owners. It's my first time using Turo. I was looking at normal car rental companies, but then I tried looking on Turo's website, and this little cute sports car came up at a fraction of the prices I had just been quoted. It seemed almost too good to be true. It's a black two-seater sports car where the roof folds back at the push of a button. This was just something I had to try, so I booked, and here I am, in front of the car chatting to Gary. " I just bought the car because I wanted to have a fun little car that I can rent out, " says Gary. "I've always wanted to own a small, convertible sports car to take advantage of the great Austin weather. Turo made sense because it allows me to rent it out when I am not using it to make a few extra dollars. I bought it specifically to rent out on Turo, so I don't mind it being used by other people. " Just like me, this was Gary's first time using the Turo service. After a brief chat, I was handed the keys and took control of the little black beauty. And boy, was it a great ride. ROCKSTAR OF THE ROAD During my first few days in Austin, I attended another travel bloggers conference and one night, over a few beers at one of the social events, I met Ed and Jeanie – a charming couple from Houston. We got along rather well, and at the end of the night, Ed offered for me to stay at their place for a few days when I got to Houston. I wasn't sure if it was the beers talking, but I took him up on his offer and said that I would love to. So here I was, heading from Austin to Houston in a little open-top two-seater sports car. It's a 2.5 hours' drive, and I had a blast hitting the open highways, feeling the wind br
S6 E194 · Wed, May 26, 2021
194 AUSTIN, TX: House of the Rising Songs
HOWDY FROM AUSTIN, TEXAS I mentioned in the previous episode from Quebec, Canada that I was going to Finger Lakes in Upstate New York after my short visit to Canada. I went there to attend a TBEX conference for travel content creators, which was really fun. I was only there for a few days and didn’t get a chance to explore the beautiful area around the lakes, so I didn’t record enough for an episode. Soon after the conference, I jumped on a flight headed to Texas where another conference was waiting for me. And the flight wasn’t without challenges that left me stranded in New Jersey… My flight out of Ithaca was delayed, which is not news. But I decided to get to the airport super early that day to catch up on some work while I waited, which was supposed to be only a few hours. But my flight was delayed once. Then twice. Then again. Then my connecting flight left without me. So, I had to spend the night and pay for my hotel without United Airlines helping me out with the inconvenience. Anyway, par for the course for a vagabond like myself, I guess. I finally made it to Texas so let’s get rocking in Austin! KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD Austin's unofficial slogan is "Keep Austin Weird". It became a thing in 2000 when a local librarian, Red Wassenich, used the phrase on a local radio show. He later began printing bumper stickers and launched the website KeepAustinWeird.com . In the spirit of weirdness, let’s get to know the city a little better with some facts about where I am. WEIRD FACTS ABOUT AUSTIN, TEXAS At some point, Austin was entirely underwater. But that was a little while back — some 66 million years ago. It was also home to 10 underwater volcanoes, which is why Austin's cliffs are made of white, crumbly rock known as "Austin Chalk." Austin is ranked one of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S. with its 12 off-leash parks, dog-friendly restaurants, and hotels. An average of 20 million people visits Austin every year. This is more than the annual visitors to Rome (4.2 million), Hawaii (8.3 million), and even London (17.4 million). Austin is the capital of Texas, and the Texas State Capitol building is the second largest state capitol building in the United States, after the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. Which just goes to show that everything is bigger in Texas. U.S. News & World Report named Austin the best place to live in the U.S. in 2017. Austin h
S6 E193 · Wed, May 19, 2021
193 QUEBEC CANADA: Therapeutic Horses in the Garden of Eden
BONJOUR A QUEBEC CANADA I’m heading north in Vermont after my road trip to all six states in New England. As I was getting close to the border of Canada, I pulled over and stopped at a rest stop at the side of the road to check some things and send a few messages before my American SIM card would lose connection. I travel with two phones. One with my Danish number and one with a local number, so I’m able to get online. As I was sitting there deeply focused with my eyes on my phones, I got a shock when there was a knock on the window. I turned my head and there was a police officer with his hand resting on his gun in the belt. The tightly built Hispanic looking officer asked for my driver’s license and my passport – and with these, he walked back to his police car behind me. Unlike the time I was pulled over for speeding in North Carolina, this was a pleasant meeting with the US police force. And he even directed me to where I could get some wine cheaper than on the Canadian side of the border. So, I did exactly that before heading across the border. WELCOME TO GARDEN OF EDEN I’ve been invited to visit a unique place in the Bromont Mountains – where I meet Patricia. She’s been a clinical nurse for 25 years and a college teacher for almost 10 years, she has a bachelor’s degree in health science and received training in therapeutic riding. So, I think it’s safe to say that care is her passion. But she’s also had a passion for horses from a young age and in the middle of her career, she decided to combine her two passions… bought a ranch close to Bromont and named it Jardins d’Eden – the Gardens of Eden. The place is located on a century-old estate with access to a huge area and a magnificent landscape with a view of the Bromont mountain, lake, and river. A short walk into the forest she’s got a very old small building that she calls “The Sugar Shack”. It’s without electricity and running water. And no Wi-Fi either or even a signal on your cellphone. So, if you decide to stay here, you are totally off the grid. HORSES AS THERAPISTS Horses are wonderful therapists, Patricia tells me. She offers therapeutic horse-riding sessions adapted to your needs according to a personalized care plan. The Ranch is a peaceful place where calm and healing are priorities. They also offer unforgettable hikes, and apart from the refuge in the forest (the primitive Sugar Shack), she also has a luxurious loft apartment above the stable. And there’s a lot to do in a place like this… Two Airbnbs, therapeutic riding sessions, massage, hikes, plus 10 horses, 5 ponies, one goat, and two dogs that needs to be fed and cared for – it’s a lot of work. But Patricia tells me that this doesn’t feel like work. If you’re in the area, and you want a pause in your life and spend a few d
Bonus · Thu, May 13, 2021
CANADA: Quebec City is a Charming Laid Back City (Flashback)
While I'm working on an episode from my revisit to Canada, I'll give you an episode from the last time I was in this country in the north.
S6 E192 · Wed, May 05, 2021
192 VERMONT: Ice Cream in Green Mountains
Join me as I visit beautiful Vermont for another instalment of my New England road trip adventure. In this episode, I meet yet another guy named Ben, hike the gorgeous Mount Washington, and sink my teeth into all the ice cream at the Ben & Jerry's factory. Lick your lips for what's to come. 192 VERMONT: Ice Cream in Green Mountains Hello from Vermont, USA After wrapping up my adventures in Maine and saying farewell to my Couchsurfing friend, Blueberry Ben, I jumped back in my hired car and proceeded to head west. It was a drive of 243 miles that took me back through New Hampshire and just across the state line, where I eventually arrived at the last of the six states in New England — Vermont. Leaving Blueberry Ben back in his forest in Maine, I was on the lookout for another Ben: this time, the Ben from Ben & Jerry's. Spoiler: I didn't. But I met someone who has met the real Ben & Jerry. He is from Vermont, and funny enough, his name is also Ben. How weird is that? We'll call him Vermont Ben. VERMONT BEN While editing this episode from Panamá, I met Vermont Ben during a pool tournament hosted by the hostel I am staying at. How randomly serendipitous to meet a guy called Ben from Vermont that just happens to be the episode I was editing at the time. It's like the universal laws of attraction are working overtime, bringing me together with people from the podcast episodes I edit on the road! Next time, I think I'll edit an episode about tall Swedish models who have a preference for bald Danish travel podcasters…#hereshoping "I'm 19 years old and I have been living in Vermont my entire life. It is a really beautiful place, with amazing people. There are a million things to do: it's a very outdoorsy place, it is extremely clean and environmentally safe and friendly. I ski, mountain bike, and do all activities you can do on a lake as I live on the lake. Most people from Vermont appreciate the outdoors and are very active, and the Vermont lifestyle is very attractive. It's a really amazing place to live and raise a family, indicated by the number of people who move there each year" . As a self-titled 'proud Vermonter', I decided to test Vermont Ben on his knowledge about his home state. He passed with flying colours. Here are a few facts about Vermont that Vermont Ben already knew... FACTS ABOUT VERMONT Vermont's name comes from the French phrase "vert mont," meaning "green mountain." Nickname: The Green Mountain State. Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup in the US, producing over half a million gallons a year (almost 2 million litres). With a population of just 7,787 in 2012, Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the US. There aren't many p
S6 E191 · Wed, April 28, 2021
191 MAINE USA: Blueberries, Blues & Beers
Welcome back to Maine and my stay at Ben's Blueberry farm! In this episode, I put a chilli finger in my eye and my foot in my mouth. So, this is not my proudest episode. You can stop reading now. But if you're brave enough to continue, just don't say I didn't warn you... In the previous episode, I arrived at Ben Perrin's blueberry farm in the middle of nowhere in Maine, USA. I got to hang out with him and his crew and saw how they sort their first-class organic blueberries and get them ready for shipping to stores. I also went to a place called The Pickled Wrinkle to eat pickled sea snails (gross) and walked around in the beautiful Acadia National Park . If you missed Part I of my time in Maine, be sure to listen to the episode before you continue. BEN AND HIS BLUEBERRIES For my last night in Maine, Ben invited me to go to a small local concert. He knew the singer and wanted to go see her ... and grab a few beers. So, I offered to be the designated driver. We piled into Ben's truck and headed out at dusk. As I was driving along the small, winding forest roads, I pulled out the microphone and asked Ben to tell me about how he ended up becoming a blueberry farmer. Ben tells me he has spent the past 15 years working on farms all around the United States, seeking out blueberry farms in particular as they are his favourite to work on. "When the machines started taking over our jobs, I started Burke Hill Farm as a way of protecting our jobs," says Ben. He was a roaming worker back then, and when he eventually arrived in Maine, he saved up enough to buy the land and build the farm. Ben's farm sees a lot of people coming to help out during the harvest season each year. "Every kind of person walks through our doors. Every different kind, and then some," he says. He's had people over the age of 80, and a few as young as 14 come to work on the farm over the years. This kind of work and lifestyle appeals to a wide variety of people, which makes each season different. Jason and Ben are the only people who work at the farm all year round. But during various times of the pre and postseason, he fires a small team to help carry the load. But Ben isn't one to shy away from hard harvest work. After around 15 years of working on farms for 20 hours a day non-stop for months, it eventually took its toll on Ben, and he found himself in hospital suffering from chronic fatigue. At that time, Ben wasn't eating for 15 days straight and getting around 30 minutes of sleep each night. After recovering, Ben realised he needed help, so he hired Jason, who helps out a lot. PODCAST RECOMMENDATION<
S6 E190 · Wed, April 21, 2021
190 MAINE, USA: Blueberries and Pickled Sea Snails
Greetings from Maine, USA! After leaving the scandalous and oh-so-intriguing story of Belinda Rathbone and The Boston Raphael behind in Boston, I jumped back into my trusted steed of steel and headed for Portsmouth, New Hampshire for a 2-night stay with a Couchsurfing buddy. I needed to visit a medical clinic here to get my blood pressure checked after consulting my doctor back in Denmark. The saga continues... UNDER (BLOOD) PRESSURE After a thorough examination from a friendly physician, I was advised on how to improve things in my life to better my situation, like diet, exercise, etc. I was also given some medication to assist, which turned out to help me tremendously. Portsmouth was great, despite my stay being short and my medical tests taking up most of my time. Not one to dwell, my spirits remained high as I hit the road on the way to Maine for another Couchsurfing experience – this time on a farm. THE MAINE PRIZE Every single day since then – and probably for the rest of my life – I’ve been taking a small pill every morning to keep my BP levels in check. So, it was a “new me” with low blood pressure that was heading North towards a state with a lot of forests. In fact, 89.5% of Maine is covered in forest. That puts them at number one on the list in the US, and actually, number two on that list is where I am right now… New Hampshire with 84%. Both of the two states have a population of around 1.3 million – but Maine is around four times as big as New Hampshire. I then drove from Durham, New Hampshire to my next Couchsurfing host Ben’s Blueberry farm in Burke Hill Farm in Cherryfield, Maine. It’s a drive of 240 miles/386 kilometers, so I made a stop on the way at the iconic Portland Light Head (not to be confused with Portland, Oregon that was actually named after this Portland here in Maine). FUN FACTS ABOUT MAINE The official state animal of Maine is the moose. The state is home to approximately 76,000 moose, the highest moose population in the lower 48 states. The official state insect of Maine is the honeybee. The Maine Beekeepers Association was founded in 1976 to promote understanding of the insect’s importance. Maine is the only state that shares its borders with only one other US state. That state is New Hampshire. The rest of the border is to Canada in the north. Maine is the only state in the United States whose name has one syllable. Maine is the single largest producer of blueberries in the United States. In fact, Maine produces 99% of all the blueberries in the country. So, very appropriate that I’m heading to a blueberry farm to learn more about this. BEN’S BLUEBERRY FARM The reason why I chose to stay in the Northeaste
S6 E189 · Wed, April 07, 2021
CAMBRIDGE, MA: Belinda Rathbone & The Boston Raphael
WELCOME BACK TO THE BOSTON AREA We’re going to an area with two of the best universities in the USA – maybe the world and therefore a lot of smart people. As you will learn, it’s not Boston but a city in its own right. It is also a story of how the discovery of a previously unknown painting by Raphael, the Italian Renaissance master, went from media sensation to a career-destroying scandal. Join me as I’ll take you to Cambridge Massachusetts. In a nice quiet green residential area, I meet Belinda Rathbone and her old dog, Ink. It was one of you guys that introduced me to Belinda. When I was in the area, I made a post on The Radio Vagabond‘s Facebook page basically just saying: “I’m in New England – does any of you know of some interesting people, I should meet?” A listener, Kaare in Denmark wrote: “Yes, you should meet Belinda Rathbone in Boston. Her son is my half-brother, but I haven’t met her myself. Anyway, she wrote a book about her father, who used to be the director of a prestigious art museum in Boston. The book is about a scandal where he got a Rafael painting smuggled out of Italy to his museum. Something they fired him for”. Now that piqued my interest, so he introduced me – and here I am in her wonderful living room with a cup of coffee and her dog, Ink by my side. FROM THE MID-WEST TO CAMBRIDGE Belinda has lived in Cambridge almost all her life, but she was born in Saint Louis, where her father was the director of Saint Louis Art Museum . Do you remember my episode from Saint Louis? It’s #62 in case you want to listen to it after listening to this one. Here I tried to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. Twice. The first time it had closed a few minutes earlier and the second time, I came on a day when it wasn’t open at all. I didn’t mention this to Belinda. I guess I was a bit embarrassed to say I never made it there. Just because I didn’t check the opening hours before driving half an hour from where I lived. And did it twice. She moved here to Cambridge with her family because her father got offered a very prestigious job. Cambridge is a city with all the smart people. They came from the Mid-West, and that could be a problem. Some people here sometimes feel better and can be quite dismissive about people from the Mid-West. As Belinda puts it: The Mid-West is a fly-over area for the coastal people. BELINDA RATHBONE THE AUTHOR Belinda is a full-time author and have published several books . One of them is about a scandal her father Perry T. Rathbone was the charismatic director of the <a href= "https://www
S6 E188 · Wed, March 24, 2021
188 CONNECTICUT, USA: Continuing the Couchsurfing CouchCrash
Hello again from Connecticut, USA! Welcome to Part II of my exciting visit to Connecticut, USA. If you missed Part I, then be sure to listen to The Radio Vagabond episode (#187) or read the blog post to get caught up with all the magic that this charming city has to offer. Quick recap: I arrived in Connecticut, USA from Providence and attended a CouchCrash organised by the Couchsurfing community here. They call it ConnectiCOUCH and it’s a weekend full of exciting experiences and parties for locals and travellers alike to meet up and make lasting friendships. After a wonderful walking tour of Hartford with local Margaret, we got back into her car and headed towards Manchester. And here is where we start this episode... ORIGIN OF THE YANKEES Directionally challenged Margaret tells me that because Connecticut is situated between New York and Boston, the state is divided into Boston and New York sports fans: for football, they are either Patriots or Giants fans, and for baseball, it’s between the Red Sox and the Yankees. The sports rivalry is insane here. “My son is a Yankees supporter, and I am a Red Sox fan, and he would taunt me by wearing his Yankees hat around the house as a joke. It’s all friendly rivalry and it’s the same in most households in the region - families split in terms of their support for different sports teams” says Margaret. Margaret tells me how the Yankees became the Yankees. “When the Dutch first arrived in Connecticut from New York, they set up a fort in the area - now known as Hartford. Around the same time, an English pastor from Massachusetts by the name of Thomas Hooker settled in Hartford with his followers, unbeknownst to the Dutch. When the Dutch returned to Hartford after being away for a few years, they were met with Hooker and his people on their land. Of course, little skirmishes ensued for the rights to the land, but ultimately, they let Hooker stay and they left. But they were unhappy about this and called the settlers ‘Jankers’ which in Dutch means ‘thief’. In the Dutch language, the letter J is pronounced as a Y, hence the name Yankees.” I wonder how many Yankees fans today know the original meaning of the name... CONNECTICOUCH WEEKEND OUTINGS The first day was our Hartford Day. There were four different things to choose from, and I chose to tour the Mark Twain House & Museum in the morning and the Hartford Walking Tour with Margaret in the afternoon (which you can listen to in Part I). Other options were a visit to the Old New-Gate Prison , a former prison and copper mine site, and adventures in nature: a hike, a visit to Wadsworth Falls State
S6 E187 · Wed, March 17, 2021
187 CONNECTICUT, USA: A Couchsurfing CouchCrash is "Friends You Haven’t Met Yet"
Greetings from Connecticut, USA! Welcome to the third instalment of Season 6 of The Radio Vagabond travel podcast series. In this episode, (#187 of my entire nomad journey!) you’ll join me for an exciting Couchsurfing adventure through Connecticut, New England. But first, let’s start where I ended off in the previous episode in the smallest state in the USA, Rhode Island. I’m about to check-in to my Airbnb in Providence...let’s do this! SEE PICTURES IN THE BLOG POST – CLICK HERE ARRIVING IN PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND As I knocked on the door of my Airbnb, I was immediately greeted by my wonderful host family with a small, very energetic (LOUD) dog. It took a day for the puppy to warm up to this dashing Danish vagabond, but we established an understanding. I spent my first day in Providence working in my room directing a voice-over recording from Denmark, which meant I had to set my alarm for the early hours of the morning (#nomadlife). After I finished work, I decided to take a drive through the city while continuing to listen to Crime Town, a true-crime podcast set in Providence. NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND The next day, I decided to trust the internet suggestions of ‘things to do in Rhode Island’ and headed South to the famous Cliff Walk to take in the scenery. The cliff walk is exactly that: a slow, wandering stroll on the cliff edge overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean. It is so peaceful here, I really love the smell of the ocean. After I had enough of soul-searching on the cliff edge, I returned to my Airbnb in Providence and gathered my things: it was time to hit the road again. NEXT STOP: CONNECTICUT The next day, I arrived in Connecticut - the 3rd of the 6 states I will visit on my road trip. I decided on trying out a different method of accommodation this time around...I joined the Connecticut Couchsurfing community! CONNECTICOUCH: A COUCHSURFING COMMUNITY Let me tell you a bit about the Couchsurfing concept before I meet my new friends here. Couchsurfing.com is a free platform where travelers and hosts can find each other and organize a place to spend the night. It’s called Couchsurfing, but you typically don’t sleep on a couch. I’ve done it all over the world and every time I’ve had my own room. SEE PICTURES IN THE BLOG POST – CLICK HERE You basically just sign up and get free access to all available hosts. Couchsurfing was launched in 2004 and today they have more than 15 million users. You can search for hosts in over 200,000 cities all over the world and you have the opportunity to message these hosts and kindly ask for them to open up their home for you – for no cost. No mo
S6 E186 · Tue, March 09, 2021
186 BOSTON: Cheers from The Radio Vagabond
Cheers from Boston, Massachusetts Welcome to the 2nd installment of the 6th season of The Radio Vagabond travel podcast. I’m continuing my stay in Boston, Massachusetts with my friend and travel-writer (and awesome host) Brianne. If you missed Part I then you can listen and/or read it here to catch up! CHEERS! A few famous things from Boston include the Red Sox baseball team, the wicked Bostonian accent (think the film ‘ The Depaaaded ’), and the birthplace of the 35th president of the United States of America, John F. Kennedy. But perhaps most importantly, Boston is known as the setting for one of the most beloved American TV shows of all time: Cheers . So, when you find yourself in Boston you simply have to visit the bar where ”everybody knows your name”... SEE PICTURES ON TheRadioVagabond.com/186-boston/ Inside, the bar actually doesn’t really resemble the one in the TV show, and I couldn’t make out the areas where Sam and Woody would usually be, or even Norm’s corner. But despite this, the place is packed daily with fans from all over the world eating overpriced burgers and drinking overpriced beer. It has 2 shops where you can buy any and all Cheers merchandise: t-shirts, mugs, hats, fridge magnets – you name it! It’s a tourist trap, and because I’m a vagabonding tourist I had to buy a Cheers t-shirt… THE FREEDOM TRAIL After my visit to Cheers, I walked around downtown Boston for a few hours to get a feel for the city. I walked along The Freedom Trail , a 2.5-mile-long (4 km) path that passes 16 locations significant to the history of the United States. The trail is marked by a line of red bricks set in the pavement and connects the city’s historical sights through downtown Boston between Boston Common across the Charleston Bridge through to Bunker Hill. It’s a fun and unique way to experience all of Boston’s history while on the move. SEE PICTURES ON TheRadioVagabond.com/186-boston/ One of the places I passed was the Old State House . Built in 1713, it was a seat of British power and the site of the Boston Massacre . Today it serves as a museum and stands as a small house in between the skyscrapers. BUY MY BANANAS – GOD DAMMIT..!! After following the red brick road, I tapped my ruby red slippers together and ended up at a fruit and vegetable market that was about to close up. Here I witnessed a uniquely Bostonian situation. A vendor was aggressi
S6 E185 · Wed, March 03, 2021
185 BOSTON: Hunting Good Vibes
Welcome to Season 6 of The Radio Vagabond! This season I'm back in North America and will be releasing travel podcasts from my visits to New England, Canada, Upstate New York, Texas, Mexico, and Florida. But before we start, let's pick up where I left off last season in Czechia. CHECKING OUT OF CZECHIA After staying a few days in an old wooden house reconstructed into a charming little hotel in the middle of the forest close to a lovely lake, it was time to check-out and head to the airport to leave the Czech Republic. I chatted quickly to hotel owner Malena about a camel I saw walking past my window (yes, a camel). She tells me that I am not going crazy, the camel is indeed real, and it belongs to local farmers. Phew, I thought I was going around the ben. BOSTON BOUND Not long after camel-spotting, I was on a plane over the Atlantic on my way to Boston, Massachusetts, for a bit of vagabonding. In the Boston International Airport immigration line, I was about to use my new ESTA visa as my previous one expired a month ago, which got me sweating like a gipsy with a mortgage. Thankfully, all my paperwork was in order, and the friendly immigration officer allowed me to enter the country. After collecting my backpack from the desolate carousel, I was on my way to meet up with my local friend, who offered to host me for a few days. BOSTON BRIANNE I met Brianne Miers at a travel bloggers' conference in the Philippines 2 years ago. We kept in touch, and she offered to put me up when I got to Boston, so here I am. She has a really great apartment which she shares with her adorable elderly dog, Lucy. The next morning we took Lucy for a walk at Castle Island , a 400-year-old British fort on a little peninsula near South Boston, or Southy as the locals call it. It was the perfect opportunity to reconnect with Brianne. Brianne was born in New Jersey, lived in Denver for a bit, attended Graduate School in Washington DC before moving to Boston about a decade ago. Although Boston is far smaller than New York City, Brianne enjoys its history, nightlife and cultural scene. We chat more about Boston being perhaps the most 'European' city which is maybe why I like it so much. BRIANNE'S BLOG Brianne is a freelance writer, photographer, and travel blogger, who has been to 45+ countries since her first trip overseas to China at the age of 11. Her blog, A Traveling Life , focuses on balancing a professional career with a life of travel, and it's her goal to take at least one trip each month. "I started my blog a few years ago with the intention of showing that it is possible to maintain a professional ca
S5 E184 · Sat, February 27, 2021
184 BALI: Luxury in Fivelements
SELAMAT DATANG DI BALI Before the next season of The Radio Vagabond, I’m going to give you an episode from a unique luxurious place. This episode was recorded in January 2020. I’ve kept it on the shelf because of the Covid-Pandemic, but now with the vaccine on the way, I feel it’s time to give you some inspiration for a super special vacation in Bali. I MET JOHN IN LONDON A few months earlier, in November 2019 I was at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London. This is a huge travel fair where the world’s destinations, hotels, airlines, and anyone else working in the travel industry show what they are doing and make deals. I was there walking around with a press badge with my name on it, and when I came to the Indonesia stand a guy behind a table started speaking Danish to me. I have a very Danish name, and he guessed that I was a fellow countryman. John Nielsen is his name, and he is the manager of Fivelements Retreat in Bali. I told him that I would be in Bali a few months later, and he told me to get in touch and we could organize a visit. He showed me a brochure and a few videos of the place on his smartphone and it looked very idyllic and beautiful and I just had to accept his offer. So, fast forward a few months and I see him again. At the resort in Bali. ECO-CONSCIOUS WELLNESS Retreat Nestled on the banks of the Ayung River in the center of Bali, Fivelements Retreat Bali is a multi-award-winning eco-conscious Wellness Retreat. It’s deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Bali, and that’s a part of why it’s a peaceful sanctuary to embrace authentic Balinese Healing, Plant-based Cuisine, and Sacred Arts. They opened in 2010 as the company’s flagship wellness destination bridging the wisdom of traditional healing cultures with innovative wellness concepts. Getting to the place, I was driving through a small authentic village with narrow streets and tiny (not so fancy) houses. So that made the contrast to what I was faced with inside the Retreat even greater. I know I say this a lot in the podcast, but this time it’s even more important that you take a look at the blog post for this episode. I will try to explain what I see as best I can, but on theradiovagabond.com you can see both pictures and videos. It is truly amazing what I’m about to experience for the next few days. At the reception, I meet the manager John Nielsen again. He takes me for a walk around the resort. JUNGLE-LIKE FEELING Fivelements Retreat is in a very green area with small, curved pathways leading through the area with a lot of grass-roofed huts and houses. I hear the soothing sound of the river running through the area, the birds in the jungle-like forest, and occasionally the so
Bonus · Fri, February 26, 2021
FLASHBACK: The Bahamas
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in June 2017 and is from the Bahamas. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/055-bahamas/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Wed, February 24, 2021
FLASHBACK: New York
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in October 2017 and is from New York . EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/101-new-york/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Mon, February 22, 2021
FLASHBACK: Ethiopia
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in January 2018 and is from Ethiopia. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/135-ethiopia/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Sun, February 21, 2021
FLASHBACK: Nicaragua
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in August 2017 and is from Nicaragua. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/082-nicaragua/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Fri, February 19, 2021
FLASHBACK: Vietnam
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in January 2017 and is from Vietnam. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/034-vietnam/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Wed, February 17, 2021
FLASHBACK: Singapore
While I’m working on the next season, I’m sharing a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in November 2016 and is from Singapore. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/023-singapore/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast . Spotify . Google Podcast . YouTube . Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message or fill out the form .
Bonus · Sun, February 14, 2021
FLASHBACK: Morocco
Hey guys! To keep your wanderlust ignited during the season break, I want to share a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in December 2017 and is from Morocco. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/088-north-carolina/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/30xyDnp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30xymB3 Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2XBslBv YouTube: https://youtube.com/theradiovagabond Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message: https://telb.ee/uaz8k
Bonus · Fri, February 12, 2021
FLASHBACK: Toronto, Canada
Hey guys! To keep your wanderlust ignited during the season break, I want to share a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in May 2017 and is from Toronto, Canada. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/088-north-carolina/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/30xyDnp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30xymB3 Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2XBslBv YouTube: https://youtube.com/theradiovagabond Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message: https://telb.ee/uaz8k
Bonus · Wed, February 10, 2021
FLASHBACK: North Carolina
Hey guys! To keep your wanderlust ignited during the season break, I want to share a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in September 2017 and is from High Point, North Carolina. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/088-north-carolina/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/30xyDnp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30xymB3 Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2XBslBv YouTube: https://youtube.com/theradiovagabond Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message: https://telb.ee/uaz8k
Bonus · Sun, February 07, 2021
FLASHBACK: Budapest, Hungary
Hey guys! To keep your wanderlust ignited during the season break, I want to share a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in April 2017 and is from Budapest, Hungary. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/005-hungary/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/30xyDnp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30xymB3 Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2XBslBv YouTube: https://youtube.com/theradiovagabond Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message: https://telb.ee/uaz8k
Bonus · Fri, February 05, 2021
FLASHBACK: Memphis, USA
Hey guys! To keep your wanderlust ignited during the season break, I want to share a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in April 2017 and is from Memphis, Tennessee, USA. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/063-memphis/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/30xyDnp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30xymB3 Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2XBslBv YouTube: https://youtube.com/theradiovagabond Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message: https://telb.ee/uaz8k
Bonus · Wed, February 03, 2021
FLASHBACK: Japan
Hey guys! To keep your wanderlust ignited during the season break, I want to share a few flashback episodes of some of my favorite places around the world. If you missed them the first time, then here is your chance to get filled in! Just tune in and vicariously travel from the comfort of your home, car, office, bar, or wherever you are. This episode was recorded in April 2017 and is from Japan. EPISODE LINK: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/043-japan/ SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/30xyDnp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30xymB3 Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2XBslBv YouTube: https://youtube.com/theradiovagabond Or in any place you listen to audio. Send me a voice message: https://telb.ee/uaz8k
S5 E183 · Wed, January 27, 2021
183 CZECH REPUBLIC. Finding My Peace in a Bohemian Paradise
VÍTEJTE V ČESKÉ REPUBLICE The main reason, I went to the Czech Republic at this time was because of TBEX – a conference for travel bloggers and other travel content creators like me. In their conferences around the world, they have interesting keynote speakers and useful workshop. In fact, I did one about starting a travel podcast. It took place in Ostrava , a small city in the eastern part of the country – and not in the capital Prague, as one might think. I’m actually glad it was here, because I’ve been to Prague many times before, and even though it’s a wonderful, beautiful and historic city it was great to see another part of the country. And after the conference, I got to see even more. I was invited on a press trip in The Liberec Region in the northern part of the country. They called the trip “Finding Your Peace in a Bohemian Paradise” – so that’s also the reason for the title of this episode. A quick disclaimer. Even though this is a press trip, where I was invited obviously in the hope that I’d say something nice about the region, I won’t say anything I don’t mean. Everything I say is my own genuine opinion. FACTS ABOUT THE CZECH REPUBLIC The Czech Republic is also called by its short-form name, Czechia. It’s a landlocked country in Central Europe and is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the east. The country ranks as the seventh most peaceful country in the world according to the 2019 Global Peace Index . The country has the most castles in Europe – more than Beer is a big deal in the Czech Republic. Czech people are the world’s heaviest consumers of beer. The first pale lager, Pilsner Urquell , was brewed in the Czech city Plzeň in 1842. Soft contact lenses were invented by a Czech chemist in 1959. The world-famous Škoda Auto is based in the Czech Republic. Their cars are sold in over 100 countries. WELCOME TO THE LIBEREC REGION Despite being the second smallest region in the Czech Republic, Liberec region is well known for local glass and jewellery, and romantic scenery provided by rock towns and a mountain range. The Liberec Region lies in the north of the Czech Republic boarding Poland and Germany. On the first day, we head just outside the region’s capital, Liberec, to the top of Ještěd Hill . It’s got a stunning view and a very unique round building containing both a hotel , a restaurant, and unique TV transmitter on the roof. This is considered the dominating feature of Liberec and the wh
S5 E182 · Wed, January 20, 2021
182 BELARUS. Are There Good Things About Having a Dictator?
At the time I went from Warsaw to Belarus, they issued a 5-day visa on arrival. So, I decided to spend 4 days in the country, since my flight out would have been a few hours too late. This five-day visa on arrival was changed one day after my visit to 30 days. It must have been because I made such a good impression on the government that they changed it. Belarus It has borders with Poland, Ukraine, Latvia, Lithuania and Russia – and is a fairly unexplored corner of Eastern Europe. The population of Belarus is about 9.5 million people, which puts them on the 93rd place in the world. So somewhere in the middle when it comes to population. But the land mass is quite big so it’s not that densely populated. Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is about 2 million, so Minsk is the 11th most populous city in Europe. After an hour bus ride from the Airport to the city, I met my Airbnb host, Svetlana. She let me in to a wonderful apartment with a huge bathtub. TOURING MINSK WITH A COUNTRYMAN I have a Danish friend of a friend who lives here permanently. I’ve been in contact with him for a while. And it was actually my plan to go to Belarus in the very start of my journey in 2016… but only because he wasn’t in the country at the time, I decided to go there later. As we both are Danish, we obviously speak Danish, so you probably won’t be able to understand much. If you – on the other hand do speak the language head over to the Danish version of this podcast. While we’re walking, we pass the building where the president is working. It’s not the White House of Belarus. He doesn’t live here. LIVING IN A DICTATORSHIP Belarus is a dictatorship, and a few days before my visit, I shared a YouTube clip with President Lukashenko where he said these words… and I kid you not… “I think it’s better to be a dictator – than being gay”. Yes, he actually said that. Lukashenko has run Belarus with an iron fist since 1994, and Belarus is often referred to as the last dictatorship in Europe. It’s a country where gay rights are almost non-existent, a country where there’s no free press. But according to Carsten, it’s not as bad as people think. Yes, there’s no freedom of speech, and the elections might not be totally fair. But it’s not North Korea, he says. There’s still a nice quality of life here, and it’s not something he feels in his daily life. When I posted the video on Facebook and was appalled by the statement about it being better to be a dictator than being gay, someone commented: ” Oh .. how judgmental and prejudiced you are Palle Bo. When you are so biased and negative, I don’t understand at all that you choose to travel to Belarus.” This was something I also heard when I went to North Korea. But I don’t see it that way. Going to a country doesn’t mean that I support the leadership and the way things are run. I’ve also been to the USA during the Trump pres
S5 E181 · Wed, December 16, 2020
181: POLAND. He’s an Englishman in Warsaw
WITAM Z WARSZAWY I think I said the latest episode that it was 2 weeks in Kraków and one week in Warsaw. It was not totally accurate: 22 days in Kraków and 4 days in Warsaw. But that’s how much I enjoyed my time there. Still, I also wanted to get a taste of the capital of Poland, and this is where we’re going in this episode. I’m going to meet an Englishman that has lived here for many years. I’m interested in hearing how and why he chose to live here and hear about the city and the country with western European eyes. I’m also going to the hospital because I discovered that my blood pressure was through the roof. But we start in Kraków where I’m heading to the airport – named after Pope John Paul II, chatting to the Uber driver. FLYING TO WARSAW And then it was off to Warsaw. It’s actually not that far – only around 300 kilometres, and I would be able to do that in a bus overland. But LOT Polish Airlines had a cheap domestic flight at only 100 €, so I decided to do that and save a bit of time. I landed at 1 pm and headed straight into the centre of the city – and didn’t know where I was going. But I managed to get my host on the phone, and he came rushing from work to let me into the apartment. 6 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT WARSAW The Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw was a gift of the Soviet dictator Stalin to the Polish nation. At 237 meters tall, it’s the tallest building in Poland, and at 165 meters, the clock tower is considered to be the tallest in Europe. When it comes to air pollution, Poland is the China of Europe. According to the World Health, a staggering 33 out of the 50 most polluted cities in Europe are in Poland. The capital is one of those. But Warsaw is also a green city. Its Lazienki Park is one of the largest parks in Europe, and pre-pandemic hosted free Sunday concerts from May to October. Probably again in 2021. Traffic jam is a thing in Warsaw. It’s the most congested city in Europe: Poles spend an average of 106 hours per year stuck in traffic. With around 1.8 million people Warsaw is the 7th Largest capital cities of the European Union. The oldest evidence of cheese production was found in the vicinity of Warsaw, apparently being produced here around 7,500-8,000 years ago. BLOOD PRESSURE WAS SKY HIGH For a few weeks, I’ve had a funny feeling that my blood pressure was high. I’m not sure how, but I felt a ringing in my ears and just that something was not right. I went to a pharmacy to get it tested and sure enough, it was much higher than it should be. So, I decided to get a check-up at a hospital, and my private insurance company gave me an address. When you’re Danish you are covered health-wise in most of the world. But I’m not a resident there anymore, so I’ve taken out a private insurance that takes care of me anywhere. Also, here in Poland. First, they did a quick test and then I was
S5 E180 · Wed, December 02, 2020
180 POLAND. Contrasting Emotions in Kraków
Cześć again from Kraków, Poland! Welcome to the second instalment of my visit to one of my new favourite Eastern European cities. If you missed Part I of my time in Kraków then go back and listen to get up-to-date with what I am doing and why I am here. I pick up where I left off, speaking with my new friend and Walkative! tour guide, Thomasz – a giant among tour guides here in Kraków. Literally… he’s more than 2 meters tall. DENMARK AT FIFA WORLD CUP Before I let him go, we had to talk a bit about the FIFA World Cup that was taking place in Russia at the time of my visit. Poland had already been eliminated and now it was time for my own team to play an all or nothing match. Thomasz sympathised with me about how tough Croatia will be for Denmark to take the win. The nerves were kicking in! I found a great sports bar close to Kraków Square that was showing the match between Denmark and Croatia . The first minute of the match saw Denmark score a goal to take an early lead. But my elation was quickly abated 3 minutes later when Croatia equalised. The tight game remained drawn at 1-1 until the end of regular time, so the two teams had to go into extra time... My heart was racing as Croatia were rewarded with a penalty kick…but thankfully the Danish goalkeeper Schmeichel saved it. And when extra time was up, the game had to be decided by a tense penalty shootout. Alas, it wasn’t meant to be for Denmark. We lost the penalty shootout which meant we were eliminated from the competition, but it was so close that it could have gone either way. The bar was full of English supporters, who were all helping me cheer for Denmark in between their now infamous chants of “It’s coming home”. So, I told them I would be back every time England would play to repay their support...which I did. KRAKOW’S JEWISH QUARTER To heal my footballing sorrows, I took another Walkative! Free Walking Tour to hang out with ‘Big Tom’ again, this time to visit the Jewish Quarter. At the beginning of the tour, Thomasz tells us something I’ve heard in many places in the eastern portion of Europe: Polish people like to be referred to as ‘Central European’ and not ‘Eastern European’. I’ve heard this in many countries, from the first stop on my journey in Estonia and all the way down to through the other Balkan countries. Maybe because it has a Soviet Block ring to it? Thomasz asked the group to come closer as he says in a quieter voice (so no Polish person would hear him) that he feels it’s a bit of bull crap. In his opinion, Poland is Eastern Europe. I felt that this is something he didn’t want to have on tape, so obviously, I had to speak to him about this as we were walking to the next spot. “As a historian and gu
S5 E179 · Wed, November 25, 2020
179 POLAND. A Giant Among Tour Guides in Kraków
WITAMY W KRAKOWIE Since recording my last episode from Slovenia , I visited a few places in Europe on business which is why I decided not to post any episodes from that time. But just to keep you updated on my recent whereabouts: I’ve been recording interviews for the follow-up to the first season of The LEGO Technic podcast . In the first season we chart the journey of the design and build of a 1-8 scale Lego model of the Bugatti Chiron in 9 episodes. And in the second season for The LEGO Group, I went to the large Lego factory in Kladno , Czech Republic, where they produce all the big scale models for the LEGOLAND Parks and big stores around the world. In the second season of the podcast series, we follow the built of a 1-1 life-size LEGO model of the Bugatti Chiron. After Czech Republic, I travelled to Rotterdam, Netherlands, for a travel bloggers conference called Traverse , before returning home to Denmark to visit my family, attend a travel podcast conference in Copenhagen, and meet with clients. I then travelled to Cannes, France, to attend the Cannes Lions festival and meet more clients and network/”shmooze”. After that Wolfsburg , Germany, was next where I visited the Volkswagen headquarters as part of my work with the LEGO Technic Podcast. Here where we tested the Bugatti Chiron LEGO model on the test track. They shot a film while I was standing at the side of the road with my microphone, recording stuff for the podcast. Phew, loads of flights! Anyway, after my business was concluded, I made my way to Kraków and this is where this episode begins! EXPLORING KRAKÓW My arrival in Kraków happened to coincide with the day the Polish national football team played against Colombia in their Group H match of the 2018 FIFA Football World Cup in Russia. Unfortunately, the Polish team lost the game 3-0 which spelt the end of the World Cup hopes. On Sunday morning, I decided to take a much-needed break from a week-long podcast editing binge to take a Free Walking Tour of the old town. You know how much I love a tour like this; they are a really great way to get to know more about a new city and provide you with ways to meet locals and fellow travellers as well. After a quick online search, I decided to go with Walkative! Free Walking Tour . Our tour guide’s name was Thomasz but he is known better by his many nicknames: Calen, Big Tom, The Giant. He’s really tall, whic
S5 E178 · Wed, November 18, 2020
178 SLOVENIA. The Only Country with LOVE in Its Name
Pozdravi from Slovenia! To kick-off my visit, I decided to take a free walking tour of the capital city of Ljubljana . I always enjoy walking tours in each city I travel to as they’re a really cool way to get more familiar with the area and its history. The tour guide spoke English very well and had a good sense of humour which made the walk through the small city highly enjoyable. We visited Ljubljana’s famous Triple Bridge and caught the sights and sounds of the cosy and car-less city centre. Along the river, there are plenty of bars and quaint restaurants where locals and tourists alike flock to in the evenings. Ljubljana is home to around 300,000 inhabitants, making it one of Europe’s smallest capital cities. Slovenia was the first of the former Yugoslavian countries to gain independence in 1991 and 2004 became a member of the United Nations. But before I get stuck into my adventure, here are a few more facts about where I am: 10 FUN FACTS ABOUT SLOVENIA Slovenia is the only country in the world with LOVE in their name. And the capital, Ljubljana, translates to ‘The Loved One’. Slovenians love bees. There are around 90,000 beekeepers in a population of just two million – that’s one in 20 people. It is tiny. Slovenia covers less than 0.004% of the Earth’s surface and has a population of just a little over 2 million. The capital, Ljubljana , is the country’s largest city but is also small compared to other European cities with less than 300,000 inhabitants. It’s one of the world’s most environmentally friendly nations, according to The Environmental Performance Index . The index indicates which countries are meeting internationally established environmental targets. Only four nations are better: Finland, Iceland, Sweden, and you guessed it: Denmark. A remarkable 53.6% of Slovenia is protected land , the 2nd highest percentage than any nation on earth behind Venezuela. With more than half of its total area covered in forest, Slovenia really is one of the greenest countries in the world. In fact, Ljubljana was named Europe’s Greenest Capital in 2016. And more than 500 brown bears roam the Slovenian forests. The people are tall and old. Slovenia has one of the tallest populations on the planet, with a typical male measuring an average of 1.8 m (5.9 feet) tall. Additionally, the average Slovenian age is 43.5 years old, making it also one of the oldest populations in Europe. There's one winery or vineyard for every 70-75 people and in Maribor they have the world’s oldest vine which
S5 E177 · Wed, November 11, 2020
177 CROATIA. Am I in Game of Thrones?
DOBRO DOŠLI U HRVATSKU Let me recap my Balkan road trip so far… I started in Albania , then I went to Kosovo , Montenegro , Bosnia and Herzegovina and now, I’ve arrived in Croatia. If you haven’t heard the other episodes from this region, I suggest you go back and do that too. Croatia is a country in Southern Europe with a fascinating history, cultures, and a lot of incredible outdoor attractions and historic monuments. The capital is Zagreb and the official language is Croatian – that is not that different to some of the other languages in Ex-Yugoslavia. Unlike Kosovo and Montenegro, they don’t have the Euro… their currency is “Kuna”, even though they are a member of the European Union. That happened in 2013 and that makes Croatia the newest member of the EU – and some of the other countries in Ex-Yugoslavia would love to join them. Both North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia has applied but still not accepted. The same goes for… Albania and Turkey. With a population of around 4 million and an area of 56,000 square kilometres is it a small country… Slightly bigger than Denmark and a bit smaller than Ireland. Their neighbouring countries are Hungary, Serbia, Montenegro, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. And across the Adriatic Sea is Italy. FREE WALKING TOUR IN SPLIT One of the things I do often when I get to a new place is to go on a so-called “Free Walking Tour”. I find them all over the world, and it’s a great way to get introduced to a new place. It’s called “free” but technically you’re expected to pay a tip. People always do but it is really your choice. Here in Split, there’s so much history, so I went on one with a guide who really knows her little city and the history behind it. And she showed us where she lives herself – in a building that is 400 years old. GAME OF THRONES SET WITHOUT DRAGONS We also went to one of the places where scenes with the dragons from Game of Thrones were filmed. The dragons were gone, but there was a bit of turmoil. A local man crossed a barrier and was washing his face in a wishing well. When one of the guards told him not to do it, he felt the guard was humiliating him in front of us and they almost got into a fight. The tour guide told me that the strong reaction might be because of PTSD from the war. A QUICK VISIT TO THE ISLAND OF HVAR The island of Hvar is a one-hour boat ride from Split and is called the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian islands. Thanks to the mild climate, the warm winters and pleasant
S5 E176 · Tue, November 03, 2020
176 BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA. We Should Never Forget Mostar
See pictures here . DOBRO DOŠLI U MOSTAR Again, I go by bus to my next Balkan destination. This time north from Kotor in Montenegro to Mostar in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina . It was one of the other guests at the hostel in Kosovo – an English guy called Edward, that recommended Mostar and Rooms Deny to me. There’s a river that runs through Mostar from the north to the south and cuts the city in two halves. Deny, the owner of ‘ Rooms Deny ’, the hostel I’d booked, came to pick me up at the bus station, and even though both the bus station and the hostel are on the eastern side, we’re taking a bit of a detour into the western side because cars are not allowed in the old town. That gives Deny time to do his ‘tour guide introduction’ to Mostar. DENY IS THE PERFECT TOUR GUIDE My host Deny Kadric is a very open young man and has an impressive knowledge about his country and especially Mostar. As we see the iconic Stari Most Bridge (the Old Bridge) for the first time, Deny asks me what I know about Mostar other than the bridge. But no, I didn’t even know about the bridge, and since that’s the most iconic thing about Mostar, I didn’t know much. Or anything – other than what Edward told me. That it’s a quaint little city with a lot of history. We’ll get back to this bridge and why it’s so important later on in this episode. SMALL COUNTRY WITH TWO NAMES Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to 3.8 million people – and it’s important that you say both names. Basically, it’s too regions with Bosnia in the north and Herzegovina in the south. In fact, I’m not even in Bosnia. Mostar is in Herzegovina and has a population of 113,000 and is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most divided city. Nowhere is this more evident than in Mostar, where Bosnian Croatians live on the western side of the Neretva River, and Bosniaks on the eastern side. Even to this day, more than 25 years after the war, this is still the case. They rarely go to the other side and interact with the people on the other side. Both sides have their own national theatre, post office, and other separate public services. Deny tells me that he does have friends on both sides, but he’s more the exception to the rule. THE SCARS OF THE WAR IN MOSTAR Deny recommended that I took 45 minutes to see a documentary called Unfinished Business in Mostar before I walked out to explore. It’s a BBC documentary presented by Jeremy Bowen, filmed in 1993 in and around Mostar at the height of the Bosniak-Croat c
S5 E175 · Wed, October 28, 2020
175 MONTENEGRO. Brad and I Have Something in Common
Zdravo! In the last episode of the Radio Vagabond, I was in Prizren Kosovo . From there I took a 300km bus ride west to my next destination, Montenegro ! It was a country I had never seen before and the trip took me back through Albania which borders this small but beautiful land. Before I get into the details of this leg of my trip, I must say that travelling by bus through the Balkans is a great way to get from place to place in this region. The bus is nice, it’s easy and best of all it’s relatively cheap. FALLING IN LOVE WITH MONTENEGRO During my visit to Montenegro, I had planned two stops. The first was Ulcinj, a little town on the southern coast of the country and Kotor which was famous for its very old-world atmosphere. In Ulcinj I’d booked an Airbnb titled ‘New Cozy Apartment with Perfect Sea View’ and it did not disappoint. It did have an incredible view and was just perfect for my needs. I’ve included a few pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com . I rented the apartment from Marko, a 24-year old student at the University of Tourism and Hospitality. He even went the extra mile and had his father pick me up at the bus station. I think he’s going to do quite well in the hospitality industry. MORE ABOUT ULCINJ Ulcinj has an urban population of just over 10,000 people with the vast majority of them being Albanian. It is the centre of the Albanian community in Montenegro. Incredibly it is one of the oldest settlements along the Adriatic coast. Founded in 5th century BC, it had been part of the Roman Empire at one point. During the Middle Ages, it was under Southern Slavic rule for a few centuries and it has also been part of the Republic of Venice as well as the Ottoman Empire. As you can imagine this place is just steeped in history. Today it is a popular destination for tourists because of its 13km long beach (called Long Beach ), Lake Šas , Ada Bojana Island and for its two-millennia-old Ulcinj Castle , which was exactly the place I was heading as soon as I settled in. MONTENEGRO NICE TO KNOWS Before I continue on with my story about my adventures in Montenegro, I’d like to share a few more details about this lovely country. It’s situated on the Adriatic coast in South-eastern Europe. As I’ve mentioned it is a small country, home to only 62
S5 E174 · Wed, October 21, 2020
174 KOSOVO: A Beautiful Little Country With a Lot of History
Tungjatjeta from Kosovo! After an unexpectedly amazing time in Albania , my next stop was Kosovo - one of the youngest countries in Europe. As you know, my goal is to visit every UN Nation in the world, so technically Kosovo isn’t on my list. But my travels are not just about ticking off items on my list, it’s about embarking on adventures. And seeing as I was so close, I simply had to visit - and I was not disappointed at all! AN INTRO TO KOSOVO At the end of the Yugoslav Wars in 2001, Kosovo was a part of Serbia until February 2008 when the small country declared its independence. The declaration has only been recognised by 116 countries, which is not enough to get on the list of the 193. Even though they are not an official UN Nation, they competed at the Olympic Games in Rio 2016 and sent a total of 8 athletes. They returned with 1 gold medal in Judo. Kosovo is home to 1.8 million people (90% of whom are Albanian) and is about 10,900 km2 (4,200 sq mi), roughly the size of the island nation of Jamaica. Kosovo is a Muslim nation. WELCOME TO PRIZREN I decided to stay in Prizren in the southern part of the country. It’s a 3-hour drive on a newly constructed highway from where I was in Tirana, Albania. The highway is referred to as a ‘masterpiece of civil engineering’ and it takes you over the mountains boasting dramatic views. And it just happened that my friend Adam from Albania Express Travel had to go to Kosovo for business, so he offered me a lift. It was a nice drive but when we got to the border, we ran into problems with the border control. Apparently, you need a special permit to drive with tourists when entering the country, and Adam got super annoyed with the border patrol who had a hard time accepting that I was not a tourist, I was a friend. After some discussion, we were allowed to continue into Kosovo, thankfully. Adam dropped me off in Prizren where we said our goodbyes. Although, it was more of a ‘so long’ as I am sure we will meet again. I had grown rather fond of my Albanian companion. As the historical capital of Kosovo and one of the oldest settlements in the country, Prizren is a small city with a population of 178,000 people. Thanks to my sponsor, Hotels25.com , I booked into Driza's House , a cosy hostel close to Sinan Pasha Mosque . I asked my host, Erdis Driza, to explain the complicated situation with Kosovo not being a UN Nation, and why Serbia and other countries won’t recognise it. Erdis explained that Serbia and Kosovo have a tu
S5 E173 · Wed, October 14, 2020
173 ALBANIA. Becoming Famous and Surprisingly Falling in Love with This Country
Përshëndetje for the last time from Albania! As I mentioned before, Albania is a country that I didn’t expect much from initially but it turned out to be pretty amazing. If you want to know why I enjoy this place so much then be sure to listen to Part I and II if you haven’t already - it’s worth it :) A big part of why I enjoyed Albania so much is because I connected with Adam - a really great guy who works in the travel industry and took time to show me around. I would also like to mention that these episodes are not sponsored. I am not obliged to say nice things - everything I say is my own genuine opinion. DICK & BALLS...WHAT’S IN A NAME? If you’ve listened to the previous episodes of my Albanian adventure, you may have noticed that Adam only calls me “Bo”. When we first met, he asked if it would be okay not to call me by my first name. When I asked him why he began to blush and told me that the word ‘ Palle ’ in Albanian is a very bad way of saying… ‘dick head’. This was not the first time I have been met with bemusement regarding my name. When I was on Nomad Cruise, I met an Italian guy in the pool bar on the top deck. He just looked at my name tag, laughed and said, “Stay there…I’ll be right back”. A few minutes later, he came back with another Italian guy and pointed at my name tag. They both broke down laughing. When I asked what was going on, he said: “In Italian, palle means balls!” They told me that Italians have a term where they say che palle – which means 'what a pain', 'how annoying', or 'that sucks.’ And in Finnish, palle means clown. No, my parents didn’t give me a travel-friendly name - they either had a wicked sense of humour or were blissfully unaware that my name has different, hilarious meanings around the world. Anyway, enough about balls... I’M FAMOUS IN ALBANIA...AGAIN Adam was still intent on honouring his promise to make me famous in his country, and on Sunday morning we met up with Mohammed, a reporter, who interviewed me for Report TV. Check it out and marvel at my Albanian stardom :) Report TV is a privately-owned TV station that brings news 24 hours a day and some information shows. After the interview, I turned the microphone around… I had a nice chat with Mohammed, who spoke with me about life as a free-press journalist in Albania, and how national television is run here. The station was launched in 2015 by a former Albania correspondent for the Italian news agency ANSA, Carlo Bollino. The Constitution of Albania now provides freedom of speech and freedom of the press, but obviously that wasn’t the case in the Communist era. So, the tradition of journalism is relatively new (since the early 90’s), which can also be a challenge as the first journalism schools opened
S5 E172 · Wed, October 07, 2020
172 ALBANIA. National Hero and Stunning Nature
PËRSHËNDETJE AGAIN FROM ALBANIA! It’s another day in the Albanian capital of Tirana and I am about to meet Adam and Elira Kadriu, a journalist from the Albanian online media and TV channel, Dritare , at the luxurious Tirana International Hotel. You might recall from Part I that Adam joked he would make me famous...and it looks like he might have been serious! We met in the outside café of the hotel and while the TV crew was setting up their lights and cameras, Adam finally let me in on what was about to happen: I was going to be interviewed about my impressions of Albania as a famous radio podcaster. See me razzle-dazzle my way through the video interview , and read the article on the Dritare website. See? I’m famous in Albania! Don’t worry, I'm not quitting my day job just yet :) ABOUT KRUJË After my 15 minutes of stardom was up, Adam and I drive to Krujë, a small historic town about 35km from Tirana. Adam wants to show me the town close to the hearts of all Albanians and made famous by Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg , who built a kingdom there. The town is also host to the country’s oldest bazaar (about 300-400 years old). In 1190, Krujë became the capital of the first Albanian state in the middle ages. And later the capital of the Kingdom of Albania. In the early 15th century Krujë was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, but then recaptured in 1443 by their famous national hero, Skanderbeg. “When he was 8 years old, Skanderbeg was taken by force to Turkey by the Ottomans and trained to fight for the Ottoman Empire. After training, he quickly became a high-ranking official in the army. In his 30s, he escaped Turkey to return to Albania and was upset at what had become of his native land. He then endeavoured and succeeded to unite all Albanians under Christianity and raised an army to fight the Turkish invaders - and prevented the Ottoman Empire from entering Europe via the Adriatic Sea” Adam tells me. ALBANIA’S COOL FLAG The Albanian flag (one of the coolest in the world in my opinion), is blood red with a large black double-headed eagle sprawled in the center. Adam tells me that it is actually almost the same flag that Skanderbeg used back in 1443. So that makes it one of the oldest flags in the world. Fun fact: the oldest flag in the world dates back to 1219 and is from the small, humble, and proud nation of Denmark :) #proudlydanish RELIGION FOR EVERYONE As I briefly mentioned in Part I,
S5 E171 · Wed, September 30, 2020
171 ALBANIA. I Made a New Albanian Friend
Përshëndetje from Albania! After my incredible journey aboard Nomad Cruise, it was time to get back to reality. Sadly, I was unable to join my fellow nomads in Santorini for a post-cruise reunion as I had already booked my trip to the Balkans, but I promised myself I would hang around after my next Nomad Cruise - yes, I was sure there was going to be a next one. So, after a sad ‘nomad goodbye’ in Athens, I hopped on a flight headed to a country that had previously never featured high on my bucket list (but turned out to be one of my favourite places I visited that year) - Albania. ADAM THE ALBANIAN As a delightfully handsome and modest vagabond, I sometimes get friend requests from people I don’t know. A month before my trip to Albania I got one from a guy called Adam. I almost declined but then I saw that we had a mutual friend (an extreme traveller from Denmark whom I respect) so I decided to accept his friend request. This turned out to be a really great decision as Adam works in the tourism space in Albania and he agreed to show me around after I said I was on my way to his neck of the woods. Adam is the General Director for Albania Express , a travel agency and Balkan tour operator with great experience in arranging accommodation, transport, and group and individual tours with experienced guides in different languages. They also organise events and meetups, treks, hikes and walking tours, as well as holidays to Albania and its neighbouring countries: Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovenia. I landed in the Albanian capital of Tirana, where Adam had offered to pick me up. Unfortunately, Adam had some important tourism work to attend to but had arranged for his good friend to welcome me to the city. I was taken to my hotel and the next day Adam and I met for a coffee. But before I tell you about my chat with Adam, here are some facts about where I am: QUICK FACTS ABOUT ALBANIA Hoxha's official title was ‘Comrade-Chairman-Prime Minister-Foreign Minister-Minister of War-Commander in Chief of the People’s Army’ – quite a mouthful! Under the leadership of Enver Hoxha, Albania was declared the world’s first atheist state in 1967. Tirana, the capital of Albania is one of the few European capital cities to not have a McDonalds. However, it does have a chain named Kolonat whose logo looks suspiciously familiar! The official name for Albania is "Republika e Shqiperise" meaning the Republic of Albania. Between 1950 to 1985 around 150,000 bunkers were built in Albania, they are nearly impossible to destroy so many are still in existence. Nodding your head in Albania is a disagreement while shaking the head means "yes", so it can get pretty confusing for tourists! At its closest point, Alba
Sat, September 26, 2020
TEASER: Albania
Next week we're going to Albania, and it took me by surprise. See you Wednesday.
S5 E170 · Wed, September 23, 2020
170 MEDITERRANEAN. Meet 249 Nomads in The Same Boat
Welcome to the third and final instalment of my Nomad Cruise adventure, where I hopped aboard the Horizon cruise ship and sailed from Spain to Greece for 9 days with a bunch of incredibly talented digital nomads. If you haven’t already listened to Part I and II then go back and do so before continuing :) Let’s jump back aboard the Horizon! CRETE We arrived on the lovely Greek island of Crete on Saturday. I was really looking forward to this stop a little more than the others because a bunch of us nomads decided to go scuba diving. Unfortunately, our scuba diving excursion got cancelled due to bad weather, which is precisely what happened when I tried to go scuba diving in the Bahamas previously – I guess I’m not meant to frolic with the fishies :( Anyway, a bunch of us decided to hire 3 cars and crammed ourselves in the back to explore the island. I was assigned the driving duties, naturally. If I managed driving up to Sani Pass in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, with a Toyota Corolla then I can certainly handle a few winding roads along the coast of Crete! Because my hands were on the wheel, I enlisted the services of Rosanna to chat with a few of the nomads in the back seat for you to meet. Our nomad convoy drove to a lovely beach and soaked up some Greek sunshine for the afternoon. After our skins were sufficiently sun-kissed, we headed back to the ship to join the rest of the gang. RYAN/RIAAAAAN (FRENCH) Ryan runs his own travel blog called Le sac à dos has been a full-time traveller/digital nomad for 8 years. Although he doesn’t count the number of countries he has travelled to, the list of places he hasn’t visited is far shorter than the ones he has. Like most of us, Ryan joined the Nomad Cruise to connect with other digital nomads to network and make new friends. He has an interesting story as to how he came to be a full-time nomad, and his blog shows his unique style of travelling. He also developed an iPhone app, Budji, which helps you keep track of your budget while you travel. Be sure to follow Ryan on his website/blog and his Instagram. NAFPLION We arrived at the beautiful seaport town of Nafplion in the Peloponnese in Greece, up the hillsides near the north end of the Argolic Gulf. The port is so small that we took lifeboats to the shore. I decided to explore the port alone, so I grabbed a nice coffee at the restaurant overlooking the quaint port. Over coffee, I had a chance to quietly reflect on how incredible this Nomad Cruise journey has been so far. I made so many new friends in such a short space of time, establishing deep connections with so many like-minded people. I am still in contact with so many of them to this day - we are a kindred community of nomads and our connection is meaningful. DINING ROOM FARE
S5 E169 · Wed, September 16, 2020
169 MEDITERRANEAN. Menorca, Malta, and Greece with Nomad Cruise
Ahoy again sailors! Welcome back to Season 5 of The Radio Vagabond. In the second instalment of the season, I re-join the gang of loveable nomads on Nomad Cruise 6 sailing the Mediterranean from Spain to Greece in 9 days. If you missed Part I of my Nomad Cruise journey, then be sure to go back and listen to the podcast or read the blog. Ready? Let’s hop back aboard the Horizon cruise vessel! We pick up where we left off in Part I, where I talk to Rod, Tilo, and Austin at the meetup I organised about how their impressions of the digital nomad lifestyle. Nomadic veterans like myself and Rod talk about our experiences regarding life on the road to newcomers to the nomad scene, Tilo and Austin. MENORCA The next day we docked at the first of our list of destinations along the way, at the small Spanish island of Menorca situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. The name comes from the Latin Insula Minor meaning 'smaller island’ which later became Menorca. Its name derives from its small size, contrasted with nearby Mallorca, ‘the larger island’. Menorca is home to almost 95.000 people and its highest point, called El Toro or Monte Toro, is 358 meters (1,175 feet) above sea level. Here I met Judy, a British ex-pat who has been living on the island for 37 years. She and her Mallorcan husband decided to leave the UK and open a restaurant in Menorca 37 years ago and haven’t looked back since. They are two of many Europeans who have fallen in love with the Spanish islands after a vacation and decided to start a life here. TALENTED NOMADS There is so much talent in the Nomad Cruise community that they organised a talent show for us nomads to entertain (and embarrass) ourselves in front of each other. It has become a tradition over the years to take over the big theatre on the ship for one night. And it didn’t disappoint: we had people performing comedy stand-up, singers, magicians, dancers - you name it. MALTA On day 5 of the cruise, we docked in the island country of Malta, spanning just 122 square miles with a population of just under 450,000 people - making it one of the world’s smallest and most densely populated countries in the world. They speak Maltese and English, as it was once a part of the UK until 1964. I went on a bus trip around the island called ‘The Best of Malta’ which was super informative as I didn’t really know much about the island country. I learned many interesting things, and I encourage you to visit Malta if you haven’t yet. It’s a really pretty island in the Mediterranean. GREEK ISLAND & WINE Our next stop was the first of 4 scheduled stops in Greece. I linked up with two of my new friends, Angus and Scott, and we decided to rent a car and go for a drive to explore the area. We arrived in Olympia, a small town on the Peloponnese peninsula famous for the nearby archaeological
S5 E168 · Wed, September 09, 2020
168 MEDITERRANEAN. Nomad Cruise from Spain to Greece
Ahoy sailors! Welcome to Season 5 of The Radio Vagabond. Join me as I embark on an epic 9-day cruise through the Mediterranean from Malaga, Spain to Athens, Greece with a large group of digital nomads. Are you ready to hop aboard Nomad Cruise 6 with me? Let’s go! After a minor hiccup trying to get on board the cruise vessel (I left my passport in one of my check-in bags…) I soon found myself making my way to the top deck bar for an ice-cold cocktail to cool off from the blistering Spanish sun. While I sip on my pina colada, let me give you some background information about Nomad Cruise and why I’m even on this boat in the first place. A BOAT-LOAD OF WANDERERS Nomad Cruise was started in October 2015 by Johannes Voelkner as a way to gather like-minded nomads into one place (like herding ants at an outdoor rave) to network, share stories, and start an official digital nomad community. Three years later I am joining the tribe on Nomad Cruise 6 – they put 249 nomad strangers on a boat and created an environment of learning, sharing, creating, and most of all, connecting. We get some mind-blowing sessions. Here are just a few of the talks and workshops that were on offer: How to design a winning morning routine How to hire remote employees Creating a Social Business Learn how to create your own Facebook Messenger Chatbot A Fresh Perspective on Cryptocurrency for Nomads and Entrepreneurs How to start your Affiliate Marketing Channel Reframe your brand with great photography How to become Google’s best friend Turn your passion into a fully automated 6 figure business Strategies for sustaining a Digital Nomad lifestyle How to travel the world for a year with carry-on luggage only…And look good while you’re doing it! In a nutshell, Nomad Cruise is a floating conference for travellers, digital nomads, and people who are location independent. But also people who are testing the waters of what a nomadic lifestyle can offer are also invited to dip their toes into the experience. But it’s not just any conference: because we are stuck on a boat we don’t go home after workshop sessions; we all hang out on the boat and network and mingle. We are all in the same boat, if you like. And you would be surprised just how much of a close bond you can form with people like this in just a few days – it’s unbelievable! Nomads are a special breed of human, and we are not like most people. Many of us have no home base and live a life of full-time travelling with few belongings, many stories, and a lot of uncertainty, which makes for great conversation. In this episode, I will introduce you to a few of these weird, wonderful, crazy, an
Thu, September 03, 2020
TEASER: Season 5
The Radio Vagabond is back with new episodes next Wednesday. In season 5 you can join me in Europe. We're going to Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Poland, Belarus and The Czech Republic. But we start on a cruise from Spain to Greece.
S4 Enull · Mon, August 31, 2020
AFRICA. All the Adventures in One Looooooong Episode
This is something special – and something that has become an attempt to set a World Record. Before we kick off the next season of The Radio Vagabond, where I will be roaming around in Europe, you will get the entire fourth season as one long episode. And the good part is that there will be no interruptions from my sponsor and any other plugs for Facebook and all the other bits and pieces where you might look for the skip 15 seconds button. This is 100% all travel content seamlessly edited together so you won’t even know when we go from one of the previous episodes to the next. This is one long episode and after I edited, I thought that this might just be the longest single podcast episode in podcasting history. And I think it is. I found one that was recording podcast for 36 hours straight but that was released as 36 episodes. I also asked three of the leading podcast experts in the world if they had heard of one that was longer. And they hadn’t… So now I’ve submitted it to Guinness Book of World Records and asked them to look into it. Anyway, all that isn’t really that important for you as a listener. Here it is. Join my trip through Africa starting in Fez in North-Western Africa and ending up as I leave South Africa. A five-month journey in a little more than 12 hours. This is an episode that is good for a lazy Sunday or a long road trip of your own. Enjoy. 00:02:10 – WELCOME TO FEZ, MAROKKO 00:18:45 – VISA HUNTING IN RABAT 00:43:25 – UBER DRIVER IN RABAT WANTS TO LEAVE 01:05:50 – MEET THE MAGIC MAN OF MARRAKECH 01:24:10 – QUAD BUGGY BUDDIES ON CAMELS 01:35:05 – THE BUTCHER FROM TIZNIT 01:56:25 – A REAL NOMAD AND MY VISIT TO A HOSPITAL 02:18:20 – A SAHARA ROAD MOVIE FOR YOUR EARS 02:38:00 – WELCOME TO SENEGAL 03:04:55 – OUR TAXI DRIVER GOT LOST IN DAKAR 03:27:10 – LUXURY IN THE FOREST IN THE GAMB
Bonus · Sun, August 30, 2020
FLASHBACK: Guinea
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in January 2018 and is from my visit to Conakry in Guinea. Find pictures and more here: Surprise: I Fell in Love with Conakry . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Fri, August 28, 2020
FLASHBACK: Canada
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in May 2017 and is from my visit to Toronto, Canada. Find pictures and more here: On the Air in Toronto, Canada . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Wed, August 26, 2020
FLASHBACK: St. Louis
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in July 2017 and is from my visit to St. Louis, USA. Find pictures and more here: I Told a Lie When the Dog Ran Away in St. Louis . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Mon, August 24, 2020
FLASHBACK: Bahamas
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in May 2017 and is from my visit to the Bahamas. Find pictures and more here: Eating Conch and Scuba Diving in The Bahamas . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Sun, August 23, 2020
FLASHBACK: Canada
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in May 2017 and is from my visit to Montreal, Canada. Find pictures and more here: I Met an Aboriginal from Bear Klan in Montreal . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Fri, August 21, 2020
FLASHBACK: Senegal
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in December 2017 and is from my visit to Senegal. Find pictures and more here: Welcome to Senegal . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Wed, August 19, 2020
FLASHBACK: Sri Lanka
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in August 2019 and is from my visit to Sri Lanka. Find pictures and more here: Unique Experiences in the Center of Sri Lanka . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Sun, August 16, 2020
FLASHBACK: New Orleans
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in August 2017 and is from my visit to New Orleans, USA. Find pictures and more here: Tarot Card Reading & All That Jazz in New Orleans . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Fri, August 14, 2020
FLASHBACK: Learning Spanish and meeting the locals in Nicaragua
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in August 2017 and is from my visit to Nicaragua. Find pictures and more here: Learning Spanish and meeting the locals in Nicaragua . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Wed, August 12, 2020
FLASHBACK: Japan
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in April 2017 and is from my visit to Japan. Find pictures and more here: Top 3 Things to See in Japan . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Mon, August 10, 2020
META: Gene Baxter interviews me on Podcast Radio
This special bonus episode will so much meta on so many levels. Let me start by rewinding about a year back. I was approached by someone who was in the process of starting a brand-new radio station in the UK. The plan was to build their programming around good podcasts from around the world. And they said that they would like to have The Radio Vagabond on the program. I thought it sounded quite exciting and different – so I said I was in. And right from the launch of the radio station in February, The Radio Vagabond has been a part of the program daily. The station is called Podcast Radio and they broadcast online to the whole world and on DAB radio in London, Surrey, Manchester & Glasgow. In between the various handpicked podcasts, they do news and interviews. And one of their hosts is a radio legend. Literally. His name is Gene Baxter – and went by the artist name Bean for many years. He is an Anglo-American born and raised in West Yorkshire, England. When he was 15, the family moved to the United States and he started doing radio. For about 30 years he was part of a legendary morning show "Kevin & Bean" on an at least as legendary radio station… KROQ in Los Angeles. It was such a huge success that in 2015 they were inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. That's a huge deal, so he's truly a legend. In March 2019, Bean announced that he would stop later in the year and move home to England with his wife. Because even though he sounds very American, he also feels very British. Now he is one of the hosts on Podcast Radio. And as you will hear, he is an amazing natural talent behind a microphone – and I was honoured to speak to one of my personal heroes in the industry I have worked in since 1985. So welcome to Meta-Monday… Here is an interview with me… so an old radio dude being interviewed by another old radio dude… from a radio station that broadcasts this podcast and now this interview is here too. It will not be more meta than this. Enjoy. LINKS: Listen to Podcast Radio . Podcast Radio on the web .
Bonus · Sun, August 09, 2020
FLASHBACK: The Gambia
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in December 2017 and is from my visit to The Gambia. Find pictures and more here: Luxury in the Forest in The Gambia . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Fri, August 07, 2020
FLASHBACK: Sri Lanka
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in August 2019 and is from my visit to Sri Lanka. Find pictures and more here: Welcome to Sri Lanka . We will kick off Season 5 in September.
Bonus · Wed, August 05, 2020
FLASHBACK: Canada
While I’m working on episodes for the next season, I’ll give you some flashback episodes that you might have missed. This one was recorded in May 2017 and is from my visit to Quebec City, Canada. Find pictures and more here: Quebec City Is a Charming Laid-Back City We will kick off Season 5 in September.
S4 E167 · Thu, July 30, 2020
167 SOUTH AFRICA. Elephant Said "Stay there, Man. Here Comes Baby"
After I left Pietermaritzburg, I went to St. Lucia – the hippo place of South Africa. There were signs everywhere saying that the hippos roam in the streets at night. The day after I joined a Hippo & Croc Boat Cruise in iSimangaliso Wetland Park just outside St Lucia, and I was picked up at the hostel and got into an open minibus with some of the others and our guide Ndu. It’s a 2-hour boat tour, where they make a promise: “100 % Guaranteed Hippo Sightings or You're Money Back” And I guess it’s a promise that isn’t hard to keep as St Lucia is home to the largest free-roaming population of hippos in South Africa. Not only is it home to 800 hippos but also approximately 1000 Nile crocodiles not to mention the abundance of birdlife here in the Wetland Park. THE HIPPO IS A WEIRD ANIMAL Here are some interesting facts about hippos that you might not know. The name Hippopotamus comes from the Ancient Greek and means ‘river horse’. Hippos bask on the shoreline and secrete an oily red substance, which gave rise to the myth that they sweat blood. The liquid is actually a skin moistener and sunblock that may also provide protection against germs. An adult Hippo needs to resurface every 3 – 5mins to breathe. The process of surfacing and breathing is automatic, and even a hippo is sleeping underwater will rise and breathe without waking. Both reproduction and birth occur in the water. Hippo calves weigh approximately 45kg at birth and can suckle on land or underwater by closing their ears and nostrils. Each female has only one calf every two years. Despite its stocky shape and short legs, it can easily outrun most humans. Hippos have been clocked at 30 km/h over short distances. Hippos will travel on land for up to 10km to feed and spend four to five hours grazing and can consume 68 kg of grass each night. That might sound like a bit but considering their enormous size, their food intake is relatively low. The hippo is one of the most aggressive creatures in the world – and is often regarded as one of the most – if not THE most dangerous animal in Africa. But if they threatened on land they will most often run for water. We saw a lot of hippos and but no crocodiles… until the last few seconds of the trip. At the bank, we saw a huge Nile crocodile in the sun. I LOST RECORDINGS As I was continuing the second half of my road trip, I was still recording a ton every day, but then when I came to Johannesburg 10 days later something awful happened. As I travel around, I always carry a recorder and I record so much. Normally for one 30-minute episode, I might have 2 hours of recordings that I need to go through and decide what to put in each episode. And even though I’m only on halfway through my road trip – and also
S4 E166 · Tue, July 21, 2020
166 LESOTHO. Like Running a Marathon in Flip-Flops
Greetings from KwaZulu-Natal! Welcome back to the next instalment of my enchanting road trip across South Africa. This episode is part 5 of my journey, so if you have missed the previous 4 episodes then I suggest you go back and catch up, otherwise you will never know just how I ended up here. I left Durban in the rear-view mirror of my hired Toyota Corolla en route to Lesotho - a tiny country completely surrounded by South Africa. It’s a country within a country - like a Russian doll of autonomous land, or as I like to say, it is a ‘country-ception’. It is a small country, around 30,000km² (11,500 square miles), and is about the size of Belgium. It is perched high up in the mountains roughly 3.4km above sea level and was granted independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. Having the goal to visit every UN Nation in the world, obviously, Lesotho was on my list as one of the 193. It is a fairly short drive up a mountain road to get to Lesotho from Durban, so I decided to book a place to stay for one night and then head back down the same way the next day. I love driving on beautiful mountain roads and taking in the scenery, so I was really excited to get to visit this small African kingdom. But the day turned out to be much different from what I expected… YOU SHALL NOT (SANI) PASS Let me set the scene for you: I’m driving on a mountain pass called Sani Pass that cuts through the peaks of the famous Drakensberg Mountains between South Africa and Lesotho. The route up Sani Pass starts at 1544m (5,065ft) above sea level, and climbs to an altitude of 2876m (9,435ft). The views up here are out of this world. And, well, so is the road I’m driving on. It feels like I’m driving on Mars. The road is a very steep gravel road, which can be difficult to drive in bad weather and near impossible in the winter where it is sometimes covered with snow and ice. Sani Pass, the highest pass in South Africa, is known for being a death-defying experience. The Smithsonian Channel calls it one of the most dangerous mountain-passes in the world - and that’s if you have a 4x4 vehicle like a Jeep or Land Rover. Your favourite Danish vagabond was driving a Toyota Corolla, which is like running a marathon in flip-flops. Little did I know, that it is actually against the law to drive this pass with anything other than a 4x4. I guess that makes me an outlaw... After an intense drive with my Toyota’s tiny engine heaving all the way up like an asthmatic at a harmonica convention, I eventually reached the border at 1 pm. I actually passed the border illegally. But my time as an outlaw was up... To cross the border, you have to drive through a small river. In a 4x4 this would be an easy task, but my Toyota was having none of it. As I was about to attempt the river crossing, one of the bo
S4 E165 · Thu, July 16, 2020
165 SOUTH AFRICA. Swinging in Durban
Groete van Durban! Welcome to the next instalment of my amazing road trip across South Africa. In this episode, you still find me in the vibrant coastal city of Durban - but more specifically, perched on top of one of the city’s most renowned landmarks, Moses Mabhida Soccer Stadium. Just what exactly am I doing 106 meters (348 ft) from the ground? I'm about to jump… The reason why I am about to jump off this stadium arch is not because I’m crazy, or because this global pandemic has gotten all too much for this weary Danish vagabond, but rather it is because I am about to do The Big Rush Big Swing : a thrilling leap swinging out into a massive 220m arc soaring over the entire stadium. It has been officially named the world’s tallest swing by the Guinness Book of Records since 14 May 2011. Okay, I might be a little crazy after all! But first, let’s backtrack a little. WHERE WE LEFT OFF IN THE PREVIOUS EPISODE After a great chat with Nkonzo aka Dat Boy Mreppa in the Sky Car (listen to the previous episode here ), we returned safely to the ground on what had become yet another glorious day in the African sun. I went into the Moses Mabhida Stadium tourism office to see if any of the other attractions would arouse my interest. And then I saw it - the brochure for The Big Rush Big Swing. My heart started pounding. Then I heard two voices on each shoulder, an angel and little devil, trying to convince me of the pros and cons of attempting this crazy swing: A: “Why put yourself through that? You know you’re going to hate it.” D: “No! You know you’re going to regret it if you don’t do it!” A: “Come on. You don’t need that. Just get in an Uber and go have lunch.” D: “If you do it, you’ll feel good about yourself!” A: “Feel good??” D: “Yes! The big rush…the big adrenalin rush!” A: “You know what would feel good? A nice cold beer and a big juicy cheeseburger!” D: “Remember just a few days ago when you were at the bungy jump place? Didn’t you just say that you regretted that you didn’t do it?” A: “Yeah…but you already did the world’s highest bungy jump.” D: “Yes that’s right…but do you know what you haven’t done yet?” A: “No...what?” D: “The world’s highest swing...” Yes, they were having a lively conversation. And I was struggling to make a decision. But I mustered up enough courage and made the decision to get a dose of adrenaline over Durban’s skyline. I sounded calm when I got up to the top - but I wasn’t. MY VAGABOND RULE When I w
S4 E164 · Thu, July 09, 2020
164 SOUTH AFRICA. South African Road Trip from PE to Durban
Molweni! Welcome to Part 3 of my epic road trip across beautiful South Africa. In this episode, we pick up where I left off in Part 2 , leaving local bungy jumpers at Bloukrans Bridge on my way to Port Elizabeth. But not long after I hit the N2 national highway I made a scheduled stop at one of South Africa’s rare gems. The exquisite Tsitsikamma National Park is nestled along the southern coast of South Africa and forms part of the Garden Route National Park. With dramatic coastlines of towering mountains meeting the pulsating tides of the warmer Indian Ocean, this is truly a beautiful place. So, I decided to get out of my car and take a quick hike to explore some of the raw natural scenery. After my hike, I got back into my car and continued towards Port Elizabeth, almost 200km away along the East coast. After a scenic drive, I arrived at my hostel late in the afternoon and after a long day of hiking and driving, I had an early night and decided to take Port Elizabeth by storm the next day. Port Elizabeth is a quaint city with friendly people and a beautiful coastline. It gets rather windy in these parts I am told, so I wore a hat so I wouldn’t have a bad hair day! INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT PORT ELIZABETH Port Elizabeth is in the Nelson Mandela Bay municipal area. It’s actually South Africa’s second largest city – with regards to its area at least. If you go by the population count – 1.2 million, it’s the 5th largest city in the country. The city is nicknamed “PE” by South Africans and is also known as ‘the Friendly City’. The city has 40 km of unspoiled coastline (consisting mostly of beaches). Forget about Route 66 – PE has something they call ‘ Route 67’ . Spread out around PE, you can experience a collection of 67 artworks symbolising Nelson Mandela's 67 years of work. Although my time in PE was short and sweet, I still managed to come away with a good feeling about the city and its people. In the afternoon I handed my trusty steed (Toyota Corolla) back to the car hire shop and jumped on a flight headed for Durban. Yes, I know that flying is technically ‘cheating’ on a road trip, but the distance from PE to Durban is almost 1,000km/12-hour drive. My time here is short, so I made the decision to cut out a few cities and towns along the coast to instead have more time for the last bit towards Johannesburg – and to play around in Durban. And it turned out to be a good decision. DURBAN, HOME OF THE ZULU I landed at King Shaka International Airport just outside of Durban in the evening, jumped in my hired car (another Toyota Corolla), and made my way to my hostel in the city. Everyone here dispenses with friendly rem
S4 E163 · Sun, June 28, 2020
163 INTERVIEW: Nomads Giving Back – Tarek Part 2
Welcome to the second half of my meetings with Tarek Kholoussy. If you haven’t heard the first half yet you should definitely do that first and then come back here for the second part. In the first one that was recorded back in December 2018 when we just arrived in Brazil on the Nomad Cruise from Spain, Tarek talked about him fulfilling three big life goals: To run 25 marathons, to visit 100 countries and the third one – that we’ll dive deep into in this episode, to start a social enterprise. When we met in Brazil, Nomads Giving Back had just been started a few days earlier, and it was hard for him to see where it was going. So, I asked him again when we met in Bali here in 2020. If you want to get involved, here’s what you can do: Join their team as a volunteer or ambassador. Join their newsletter to stay informed on impact events and opportunities. Join the online community and the Global Tribe on their Facebook group to stay connected and inspired with socially conscious friends. I hope you found it inspiring and feel like getting involved with the project. Soon another JOURNEY episode of The Radio Vagabond where we continue the road trip in South Africa.
S4 E162 · Sat, June 27, 2020
162 INTERVIEW: From Wall Street (with a tie) to The Nomad Life
This and the next episode are about a nomad called Tarek Kholoussy, recorded in two continents. In Brazil and Bali. Tarek’s life had taken a huge turn a few years back, and today and tomorrow you will hear about that. This is the first half of Tarek’s story, and get ready to meet a super interesting guy. It’s a story about change, about goals being fulfilled, signs from the universe, and a bit of serendipity… We start in Bali, where I’m at the beach having a cold beer with my good friend Tarek; and then we jump to Brazil, let me describe Tarek for you: He’s got long hair tied up in a man-bun and a short beard. He’s always wearing relaxed clothes. Often a t-shirt with colourful decorations, and always bands on his arms. I feel it’s relevant for you to get a mental picture of what he looks like now – because it was very different a few years earlier when he was a corporate employee on Wall Street when he lived in New York City. He was working for Goldman Sachs, was trading stocks, where he wore a tie. Then, 4 years ago, he made a change in his life and became a nomad. And made three goals a thousand days before turning 40. Running 25 Marathons. Visiting 100 countries. Starting a social enterprise. And those three goals are coming true one by one. When we got to Brazil Tarek had just visited his country number 100. In the conversation, I said that I would go to Bali next year and stay longer. And that’s exactly what I did – and where I met Tarek again. In the second half of the interview with Tarek (tomorrow), we’ll hear about the social enterprise he started called Nomads Giving Back. That whole thing started just a few days earlier on the Nomad Cruise that brought us to Brazil. We’ll also get to hear what has happened since then and why he’s here in Bali right now So much more to come in the next episode tomorrow. My name is Palle Bo see you tomorrow.
S4 E161 · Tue, June 23, 2020
161 SOUTH AFRICA. Ostrich, Oysters and Bungy Jump in Garden Route
Welcome to day 3 and 4 of my road trip from Cape Town. In this episode, I visit Safari Ostrich Farm in Oudtshoorn here on the Garden Route in South Africa. It’s the only Tractor Safari on an Ostrich Farm in South Africa, and it’s interesting to see and learn something new about this weird bird – a specie whose ancestors have been around since the age of dinosaurs. Then I head to Knysna – a quaint town located in the heart of the world-famous Garden Route. If Oudtshoorn is big on Ostriches and Knysna is mostly known for Oysters. So, I go to a restaurant called 34 South at the Waterfront after a long walk to Knysna Head to see the sunset. On my way from Knysna to Port Elisabeth I was driving straight east along the coastline on the N2 Highway. Again, the view from the window of my Toyota Corolla was unreal. On the border between the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape, I get to Bloukrans Bridge where they have the world's highest commercial bridge bungy jump, Bloukrans Bridge Bungy . It’s 216 meters (709 ft) above the Bloukrans River. Here I speak to some of the jumpers both before and after their jump. . LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E160 · Tue, June 16, 2020
160 SOUTH AFRICA. Garden Route Road Trip from Cape Town
The Radio Vagabond podcast is back...! This is an episode that was recorded pre-Corona and is the first leg of my road trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg. I start driving Garden Route to Cape Agulhas – the southernmost point of Africa where the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean meet. Then I head north towards Oudtshoorn and on the way I visit Ronnies Shop that had its name changed to Ronnies Sex Shop as a prank from his friends. He was angry at first but that turned the business around, because as he said: "Sex sells, my friend". See my route on TheRadioVagabond.com along with a few pictures of the shop and some stunning landscape. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E159 · Sun, April 12, 2020
159 INTERVIEW: Wade Connecting the Dots
This is really a story of connecting the dots as Steve Jobs talked about. This guy went from studying to be a nurse – to becoming a soldier in Kuwait – to being stationed in Guantanamo – to working for the FBI busting criminals – to landing a high-paid job while being drunk in a karaoke bar – to doing spy-stuff and nearly getting killed in a rocket attack in Afganistan – to becoming an app developer and then a digital nomad. Wade Sellers is also a Nomad Cruiser but we’ve never been on a cruise together. I’ve been on Nomad Cruise 6, 7 and 10 and he was on number 9. We met in Canggu Bali for a chat about the first 34 years of his life. A very nice guy with a remarkable story. LINKS: Wade’s blog AppsWithWade.com and his newsletter AppsWeekly.com . Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E158 · Fri, April 03, 2020
158 SOUTH AFRICA. Top 10 Things to See in a Week in Cape Town
As a full-time solo traveller, it's always great to have visitors, especially from your kids. You might remember that my youngest daughter travelled with me for four months at the beginning of my journey to Asia. She met me in Bangkok, and then we were in Chiang Mai, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Hongkong, China, North Korea, South Korea. And when we got to Japan, my oldest daughter joined us, and we had two weeks together there – during cherry blossom season. Since then, I've only seen them when I've been back in Denmark. When I knew I was going to be in Cape Town, they decided to be spontaneous and book a flight to visit me. And I can't be happier. I've planned to show them why I love this place, and I'm going to be the best tour guide I can be, and below you can find my personal Top 10 Things to See in a Week in Cape Town. The first thing on the list is a must-see when you're in Cape Town. Like San Francisco has Alcatraz, Cape Town has Robben Island. An island close to the city where there used to be a prison. When you visit Robben Island, you start with a 40-minute boat ride from V&A Waterfront. FACTS ABOUT ROBBEN ISLAND: The World Heritage Site, Robben Island takes its name from the Dutch word for seals (robben), the Dutch/Afrikaans name Robben Eiland translates to Seals Island. It's 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) of the coast of Cape Town – and the island itself is 3.3 km (2.1 mi) long, and 1.9 km (1.2 mi) wide. The island was first used as a political prison in the mid-1600s. This was where the Dutch settlers sent people who refused to bend to colonial rule. In 30 years from 1961, a maximum-security prison here held enemies of apartheid. One of the prisoners was behind bars here for 18 years, was a political activist named Nelson Mandela. The South African also call him Madiba – and our guide, who's also an ex-prisoner, calls him Father Mandela. In total Father Mandela served 27 years in prison until he was released in 1990. After the fall of apartheid, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 together with the former president, Frederik Willem de Klerk, and one year later this former prisoner of Robben Island was elected President of South Africa. The guide takes us for a walk around the prison and tells stories of what it was like being there. And then we get into the corridor with the cells in B-Block. One of them being the cell of prisoner #466/64 A 2 x 2-meter cell with a thin mattress on the concrete floor as a bed and a bucket for a toilet. They were allowed one visitor a year for half an hour, and one censured letter every six months of no more than 500 words. Outside is a courtyard where Mandela and fellow prisoners would eat breakfast, exercise and worked long days in the yard hammering rocks. A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY Editing this episode, we're in the middle of the Corona Pandemic, and I'm alone in an apartment in Cape Town during the lockdown. We're not allowed to g
S4 E157 · Thu, March 26, 2020
157 INTERVIEW: Nomadic Matt Returns
This episode is recorded in November, before the Coronavirus outbreak. Since then, Matt Kepnes has tested positive for COVID19 – but as he’s telling on his blog , he’s feeling better. - - - - - - - Matthew Kepnes is an American travel blogger, and among travel bloggers he's a rock star. He's a New York Times bestselling author and has been featured in the New York Times, CNN, National Geographic, Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and BBC. Matt was born in Boston in '81 and growing up, he wasn't a big traveller. In fact, at 23, he had never left the United States. But in 2004, he took a trip to Costa Rica, and that experience changed his life. From that moment on, he was hooked on travel, and when he came back from a trip to Thailand the following year, he finished his MBA, quit his job, and began travelling the world full time and blogging about his experiences. In short, he became Nomadic Matt, and in 2008, he started NomadicMatt.com to record his stories and monetize his travelling. Now he built an empire around the Nomadic Matt brand. He runs an online blogging school called Superstar Blogging, where he offers online courses in blogging and also hosts other courses. He does guidebooks, he owns a hostel, and he created TravelCon – a conference for travel bloggers and content creators. Kepnes' first book, "How to Travel the World on $50 a Day: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Smarter", was published in 2013. That was one of the books I bought in the planning of my journey leading up to the day I left in July 2016. The first time I met him was a week into my journey when I was at a travel bloggers conference in Stockholm. Here I had him on the podcast ( it's episode #18 ), and since then we've met a number of times. Including when he hosted his first TravelCon in Austin two years ago. He's still "Nomadic Matt" but his life a full-time traveller is over. At least for now. This is the topic for his new book, and since we both were in London for WTM, we decided to meet and catch up. LINKS: The Nomadic Network Nomadic M
S4 E156 · Wed, March 25, 2020
156 SOUTH AFRICA. Dedicates His Life to Saving the Children in Cape Town
Welcome to the second half of my visit to a child and youth care centre in Cape Town. If you haven’t heard the first half, you should listen to that one first. And then you will know that Florian Kraemer, the CEO and founder of this place called Vulamasango is so passionate about caring for these kids. He goes out of his way to do what is right. He tells about a specific girl in the children’s home and how far he went in her case. Her mother who was an alcoholic – and regularly he had to take her to the police station to sign papers. Like, when they take the children overseas on the tours they have to get the visas and the parents permission. He ended up adopting that child personally. In this episode, we go for a walk around the area and see how the kids live and get to hear some more mind-blowing South African statistics. And Florian tells me how he was highjacked and nearly killed in a township at some point. At the end of this episode, I check in with Florian again here in March 2020 to hear how they are coping with the Corona Virus in Vulamasango and hear Florian's thoughts on the situation in the poor townships. LINKS: Vulamasango Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E155 · Mon, March 23, 2020
155 SOUTH AFRICA. Open Gates to an Orphanage in Cape Town
We’re in the Cape Flats – the township-areas around 25 km/15 miles south-east of what we know as the city of Cape Town. Here we meet the CEO and founder of Vulamasango , Florian Kraemer. This is a remarkable story that comes full circle, about a man that was saved by a young African boy when he was just a teenager himself. At that African boys ends up getting killed in an attack in the civil war in Congo the very next day. This was a turning point and Florian from Germany dedicated his life to helping African children. Changing lives and maybe even saving a few. In a few days, I will continue my walk around Vulamasango. He shows me where and how the kids live here and tells me how he ended up adopting a girl himself. We also talk about townships, teenage pregnancy, the aids problem, how he was highjacked and nearly killed … and much more. And then, I will do a follow-up with Florian. We will meet here in Cape Town to talk about how they are coping with the Corona outbreak right now – in March 2020. What are the consequences for this country, the orphanage, and especially the millions of people living in the townships, if this thing spreads even more? Enjoy this first half, and see you in a few days. LINKS: Vulamasango - Open Gates . Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E154 · Tue, March 17, 2020
154 INTERVIEW: Jason Moore, Zero to Travel
In this episode, I speak with Jason Moore. He's an American living in Norway, who does a popular podcast called Zero to Travel . LINKS: Zero to Travel Zero to Travel on Facebook . Location Indie . Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E153 · Sun, March 15, 2020
153 BONUS: Corona Special
It's Sunday, March 15th 2020. This is a special episode where we dive into the situation of the world right now. Both my own and the effect it has on my travelling friends around the world. How should I react to my government's recommendations? GÆSTER: Toti from Italian Trip Abroad . He's an Italian living in London. Nick and Margherita from The Crowded Planet . They are in Milan, Italy. Becky Gillespie from The School of Travels Podcast. She's an American in Japan. Torbjørn Pedersen from Once Upon A Saga . A Dane travelling to every country in the world without flying. He is stranded in Hong Kong. Bill Osei Akomea from Ghana. An attorney living in Berlin. He's also the co-founder of the organization Plight of the Child , caring for unprivileged children in Ghana. Monica Mzungu from Kenya. She's running the travel agency Scenery Adventures . Nadine, a French teacher from Mauritius that just travelled to China where she lives.
S4 E152 · Fri, March 13, 2020
152 INTERVIEW: Sean Tierney is Slowmadic
Today we’re meeting Sean Tierney. I got to know him through Nomad Cruise and he’s got an interesting story, that he’s sharing with us today. After Nomad Cruise X we both ended up in Bali and got to hang out even more. He’s also nomadic like me. Well, partly nomadic now. We started around the same time but he travels slower than me – hence the title "Sean Tierney is Slowmadic”. He’s also a podcaster. He does the Nomad Podcast – and actually I’m a guest on that one also today. Recently he quit his day job and went fulltime on an initiative called Charity Makeover, where he facilitates that people with different skills get together and find out ways to help local charities. This is really awesome and everything is something we will get into in this chat with my good friend Sean Tierney. CHARITY MAKEOVER Charity Makeover is a grassroots movement of doers around the world organizing hackathons to fundamentally change the game for local charities. Their website sums it up in a few lines what they do: "You have a unique gift. And it’s the best charitable contribution you can make. Anyone can donate money to support a charity. What if instead you could work alongside other talented knowledge workers and contribute your unique skill set to help improve how that charity functions?" If you think this sounds interesting go to CharityMakeover.org and see how you can get involved. NOMAD PREP We didn’t even get into this in the interview, but Sean also helps aspiring nomads take the leap with his Nomad Prep . LINKS CharityMakeover.org Watch Sean's keynote on Nomad Cruise X here . Subscribe to The Nomad Podcast or listen here . Nomad Prep . Remote Year <a hr
S4 E151 · Mon, March 09, 2020
151 SOUTH AFRICA. The Dark History of District Six
Welcome back to The Radio Vagabond and Cape Town and in this episode, we’re going driving – chatting with Uber drivers. And then we’re visiting the District Six Museum. THE UBER DRIVERS OF CAPE TOWN I’ve learned that some of the best people to talk about what it’s like in a city are Uber drivers. So, in this episode, we will do just that. A lot of the Uber drivers here in Cape Town are from other countries. Three of the four, I speak with here, are from other countries: Congo, Malawi and first Philip from Rwanda. He has lived eight years here in Cape Town. A lot of people think that there is much crime in Cape Town, but Philip mentions that the low crime of the city of Cape Town is the best thing about living here. As long as you’re in the city and not in the townships in the middle of the night. He also mentions that the police are friendly and willing to help you if you need it. “Also, it’s a beautiful city with the mountain and the ocean,” he says. My next driver calls himself Annes from Congo. He agrees with Philip that it’s a peaceful place, but he’s more talking about peaceful compared to where he’s coming from. He wanted to get away from the civil war in Congo and came here as a refugee. It was not only the safety situation that made him flee to South Africa. It was also the fact that the civil war made it difficult to make money and a decent living. Here in Cape Town, it’s better and since he came here he’s got two kids. One is turning three today and one is only week old. So, while the party is taking place, he’s out here driving to make money. EXPENSIVE RENT I also asked Philip from Rwanda if there’s something bad about being here. He says that the worst about living here is the prices for accommodation. A simple one-bedroom apartment is 5000 R per month ($320, €290). To us, that might sound cheap, but compared to how little low-income families make, that is a lot, he says. POVERTY AND CRIME IN THE TOWNSHIPS My next driver is called, Facel and is born and raised in Cape Town. To him, the best thing about living here in The Mother City is the people. “Cape Town people are very relaxed”, he says. “They are not as violent as Johannesburg people for instance. Generally, in Cape Town, the people are very kind towards each other – although there is a lot of crime in the local townships.” He then goes on to tell me about the area I was about to visit. “We used to have a place called District Six, where everybody lived together. But because of the government, that tried to get segregation in motion by splitting up the people, they had to move out of town. And they were placed in various places in the outskirts of Cape Town. Because of that, they developed a lot of poverty and unemployment. And that has resulted in many youngsters have resorted to crime”, he tells me. AUDI IN A POLO The last Uber, I get into in this episode is a Volkswagen Polo, but the driver's name is Audi. Yes, that is his real name, and
S4 E150 · Thu, March 05, 2020
150 INTERVIEW: Robin is a different kind of full-time traveller
Recently I was in Dubai and heading to Kathmandu in Nepal. On the flight next to me was a young guy with one of the friendliest smiles I’ve seen in a long time. On the flight, we became instant friends and decided to hang out some more when we got to Kathmandu. That young guy was Robin from Germany. This is an interview episode and you do not want to miss this one, because Robin is a very different type of full-time traveler than most of us. And the way he travels has really inspired me a lot for my future adventures. Robin Ey Manni is 28 years old and has been traveling full-time for seven years. I also met Robin’s Nepalese friend, A Jay. He is really a nice guy and Robin sees him as a friend for life and a second home. A Jay went out of his way to show us around and I’m still in contact with him. If you are going to Nepal, reach out to A Jay. He enjoys getting visits from travellers. He just bought his own tuk-tuk and will be able to take you around. He would be a great guide and you could pay him a bit so he can support his family. He’s a proud man and probably will say that he doesn’t want your money, so you might need to persuade him. He’s called A Jay Uni on Instagram and Facebook . You can also reach him on WhatsApp on +977 981-4471341 Just tell him I sent you. You can follow Robin on Instagram as The_Life_of_Robinson . Soon there will be another episode from Cape Town. Here I talk with four different Uber drivers about what makes Cape Town special – and visit the District Six museum and tell you the story of a vibrant part of the city that got demolished by the apartheid regime in the 70’s and still to this day is mostly an empty field. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . ou can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E149 · Fri, February 28, 2020
149 INTERVIEW: Get Rid of Your Fear of Flying
Here’s an episode that was recorded at WTM - World Travel Market in London in November. World Travel Market London is the leading global event for the travel industry to meet industry professionals and conduct business deals. This is where global travel buyers network and make deals with over 5,000 of the biggest destinations and brands in the world. When we’re talking about travelling, flying is a big part of it, and since 1 in 3 people have a fear of flying I thought it would be interesting and relevant to hear from someone who helps people get rid of that phobia. So I got in touch with Lawrence Leyton, who is arguably the world’s leading authority on the ‘Fear of Flying.’ He is also a renowned Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner & Thought Field Therapist. I met up with Lawrence and his business partner Mark Wein (who was an ex phobic himself). They run a Fear of Flying course that is hugely successful and has helped over 10,000 people to date. LINKS: Fearless Flying Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E148 · Tue, February 25, 2020
148 SOUTH AFRICA. Finding Sugar in Cape Town
Episode #148 - Finding Sugarman in Cape Town Pt: II V1.0 20.02.2020 Sawabona abangane! (Zulu for 'Hello friends!') Welcome back to The Radio Vagabond for Part II of my interesting conversation with Cape Town local Stephen' Sugar' Segerman, amateur music detective and inspiration behind the Academy Award-winning feature documentary Searching for Sugarman . If you haven't listened to or read Part I of this fantastic story, then I suggest you go back and do so before continuing, otherwise much of what is to come will not make any sense. So, let's just jump back into it and start where we left off in Part I – front row center of Rodriguez's 2013 sold-out concert in Cape Town. Wow, what a delight! The concert was surreal. The audience kept chanting, "RODRIGUEZ! RODRIGUEZ!" between each of his songs. We were all witnessing a legend perform remarkable songs with his backing band. At some point, he joked, "Hey, come on. Just relax and treat me like a regular legend" . We all obliged, myself included. FIRST-HAND HISTORY The day after the concert was the night of the BAFTA awards in London. I didn't even know that the film was nominated, and it was a pure coincidence that I had my TV on in the background. And all of a sudden, the Swedish filmmaker Malik Bendjelloul was on stage accepting the award for best documentary feature. During his acceptance speech, Bendjelloul said, "Rodriquez couldn't be here this evening because he is in Cape Town kicking off a big tour of South Africa." I immediately felt a part of the story, as if I had been involved in something special. I soon realized that each and every South African felt the same way, perhaps a little more. The film was selected to open the Sundance Film Festival in Los Angeles (where the film went on to win two awards), and Bendjelloul took Sugar and Rodriguez along with him to experience the award ceremony and press circuit. After winning numerous awards, the film then went on to achieve something special – a nomination for best documentary feature at the Academy Awards. Sugar wasn't even thinking about going – a trip like that to Los Angeles from Cape Town would be super expensive. But then the City of Cape Town Tourism Board came knocking on his door, offering him a flight to LA and accommodation for the ceremony because of what the documentary had done for Cape Town tourism. Sugar tells me stories about what it was like being thrust into the spotlight and rubbing shoulders with Hollywood celebrities at the Vanity Fair afterparty – an exclusive winners-only award party where your entry ticket is an Oscar statue. Here he met Buzz Aldrin, who gave him some sage advice. FROM SUCCESS TO TRAGEDY It's truly an epic story. Not only fo
S4 E147 · Sun, February 23, 2020
147 SOUTH AFRICA. Searching for Sugar Man
After coming down from my wine and gin-soaked euphoria after receiving the amazing news that I am officially cancer-free (yay!), I got the opportunity to chat with Stephen ‘Sugar’ Segerman, the inspiration behind the Academy Award-winning documentary Searching for Sugarman . If you haven’t seen the documentary yet (where have you been hiding?) then take a quick look at the trailer so you can be up-to-date with what this episode is all about. Go on, I’ll wait. Finished? Alright, let’s jump into it! Sugar is one of the main characters in the documentary. He owns a vintage record store in Cape Town called Mabu Vinyl , an iconic meeting spot for the city’s art and music scene. The store is just around the corner from where I am staying, so the other day I walked in, bought a T-shirt, and asked to interview Sugar. A few days later I received a call from the man himself and soon I was ringing the doorbell of his home, eager to hear more from the amateur music detective. He opened the door and welcomed me in with a warm smile and, of course, a classic South African ‘howzit!’. “I’m Sugar,” he said, as if I didn’t already know (I have watched the documentary more times than I care to admit). Sugar got his nickname from his army days when his friends preferred to call him Sugarman instead of Segerman, and it soon became Sugar for short. The reference comes from the song ‘Sugarman’ by the American singer-songwriter Rodriguez, an incredibly popular music artist in South Africa at the time. THE COLD HARD FACTS Sixto Rodriguez is a remarkable musician hailing from Detroit, Michigan USA. Although immensely gifted, his music career had a disappointing start in the US, with his first album Cold Fact (1970) selling only a handful of copies. However, by chance or divine meddling, bootleg copies of Cold Fact started making their way to African shores in the early 70s which resulted in a massive fanbase in South Africa, unbeknownst to the singer. The Cold Fact LP was a fixture in most South African’s record collection, and the singer was more popular than The Beatles and The Rolling Stones in South Africa. However, the only information South Africans could get regarding Rodriguez was from the Cold Fact LP. The musician’s identity was a mystery, and so rumours and tales started surfacing about his possible whereabouts, furthering his popularity and mysticism in the country. It’s important to consider that during this time South Africa was in the height of the Apartheid regime, which saw the country being isolated from the world through trade tariffs and embargos, and the like. So very little information about the goings-on of the rest of the world trickled into the South African public’s radar. Sugar, like every South African in the 70s, was a massive Rodriguez fan and so attempted
S4 E146 · Fri, February 21, 2020
146 INTERVIEW: Becky Gillespie is not Dizzy
I met Becky Gillespie on The Nomad Cruise , and we became good friends quickly. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Becky Gillespie has been living abroad since the age of 22, when she moved to Tokyo. The plan was to spend one year working as a teacher, but one year turned into 12. Becky is writing a book about the part of Tokyo she ended up staying in and loving so much. The title will be "Shimokitazawa: Your Guide to the World's Most Walkable Neighborhood". She became a digital nomad in 2017 and is now a freelance editor and host of The School of Travels Podcast , where she interviews people about what travel has to teach us about life, love, work, and all the in-between. I had the pleasure of being a guest in episode 31 . In this chat, we talk about Japan and some of the places she visited since she became a full-time traveler two years ago. We also talk about The Rickshaw Challenge – a ten-day trip driving yourself in a tuk-tuk through India – and about meeting again in South Africa in April attending Africa Burn outside Cape Town.
S4 E145 · Mon, February 17, 2020
145 SOUTH AFRICA. Welcome to "The Mother City" – My Favourite City, Cape Town
We are back in Africa, and I have finally reached Cape Town – also known as "The Mother City". It’s my favorite city in the world so I couldn’t be happier, except for the fact that I’m still very worried about my health. So we start by going to the hospital where I get the verdict: Do I have cancer or not. You can also join me on a wine tour and on a visit to a micro-distillery, Pienaar & Son that produces some great gin. LINKS: Pienaar & Son Produced by RadioGuru . Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
Bonus · Sun, February 16, 2020
Worst Day In Ethiopia (Flashback)
This is just a quick Sunday update, so you are ready for tomorrow when we’re back on track on my Africa trip. I left you in Ethiopia, and just as I was about to fly to Cape Town, I got a disturbing message from my retired doctor back in Denmark. Since you might have missed that episode, here it is again. Tomorrow when I will take you with me to a visit to the hospital in Cape Town where I get the news about my health. See you tomorrow.
S4 E144 · Wed, February 12, 2020
144 SRI LANKA. The Most Scenic Train Ride in the World
NOTE: There was a bug in the episode when I uploaded it yesterday – so listen here instead. ----- In this episode, I’ll take you on a beautiful train ride through some beautiful nature in Sri Lanka, so I can understand why many people call it the most scenic train ride in the world. But there’s so much more for you in this last episode from Sri Lanka. I also stay at Club Hotel Dolphin with the biggest swimming pool in the country on the beach north of Colombo, where I speak to the German manager about what it’s like being an ex-pat far away from his family. Then I visit one of the churches where the Easter terror attacks hit in 2019. LINKS: Sri Lanka Tourism . Book Club Hotel Dolphin via Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E40 · Tue, February 11, 2020
The Worlds Most Scenic Train Ride is in Sri Lanka
In this episode, I’ll take you on a beautiful train ride through some beautiful nature in Sri Lanka, so I can understand why many people call it the most scenic train ride in the world. But there’s so much more for you in this last episode from Sri Lanka. I also stay at Club Hotel Dolphin with the biggest swimming pool in the country on the beach north of Colombo, where I speak to the German manager about what it’s like being an ex-pat far away from his family. Then I visit one of the churches where the Easter terror attacks hit in 2019. LINKS: Sri Lanka Tourism . Book Club Hotel Dolphin via Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E143 · Mon, February 10, 2020
143 SRI LANKA. The Festival of the Tooth in Kandy And a Dilemma
The Radio Vagabond is back, and this week you will get two more episodes from Sri Lanka. In this one we go to the center of the country. We start by visiting two workshops – one doing batik and a wood workshop where we get a demonstration of how they make natural paint using what they call “The Rainbow Tree”. FESTIVAL OF THE TOOTH Then we go to a spectacular parade called "Kandy Esala Perahera” – also called The Festival of the Tooth. It happens every year and is one of the most important celebrations in the Buddhist world. It was amazing to witness but I didn’t like to see elephants in the parade. It’s such a big part of the Sri Lankan culture so we explore the meaning and importance in this episode. DROP ME A LINE I would like to hear from you. Where are you and what are you doing as you listen to this episode. Please send me an email on listener@theradiovagabond.com or send me a voice message on WhatsApp to +45 40 105 105. DISCLAIMER The trip to Sri Lanka was made possible by Sri Lanka Tourism, but everything I say is my own genuine opinion. LINKS Sri Lanka Tourism Henry Batik Find the way to Rajanima Craft Produced by RadioGuru . Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .
S4 E142 · Thu, October 24, 2019
142 SRI LANKA. Unique Experiences in the Center of Sri Lanka
When I left you in the latest episode here from Sri Lanka, we were heading to an authentic village in the forest. You might remember that I was steering the bullock cart on the way there. After that, we walked a bit more along the rice fields down to the river where a "catamaran canoe" took us across. And then after a bit more walking, we got to a small house with a grass roof. Inside was a smiling Sri Lankan woman about to cut a coconut in half with a big knife. AUTHENTIC VILLAGE EXPERIENCE I get to taste a bit of the coconut milk, and then she starts grinding the inside of the coconut. She's using a piece of metal at the end of a stick she's sitting on. The desiccated coconut falls on a banana leave. It looks so easy, and yet we can see that she was very skillful. She has done this a million times before. Especially after Joanna and Viola from the group tried to do it, we realized that they just didn't have the same touch. We go outside where there's a big rock. Here she puts some chili and salt and starts rubbing with another stone the size of a loaf of bread. She adds the desiccated coconut, onion, and lemon, and rubs some more. This coconut paste was scooped back to the banana leave and was to be a little part of the meal that awaits us. The rice and the chicken drum stick curry had been cooked over a fire outside the hut. And there was so much delicious food on this authentic Sri Lankan buffet that we were eating with our hands. On the way back to the bus, we sailed a bit more in the catamaran canoes, following the river on to a lake. Visiting this small village in the forest, having the authentic Sri Lankan lunch prepared like it's been done for centuries in a small hut with a grass roof, eating with our hands was truly an experience. ELEPHANT SAFARI But the afternoon was about to get even better: We were going on an elephant safari. For the next couple of hours, we were driving around a big area where close to one hundred elephants were roaming freely – like they are supposed to. We're in Minneriya National Park, best known for its large herds of Elephants – generally well over 100 elephants at a time nearby area of the Minneriya reservoir. It's situated in the south-central area of the island and comprises of grasslands, thorny scrubs, and many valuable species of trees. Apart from elephants, species of deer, wild boar, water buffalo, and jackals are some of the wild animals found, along with a variety of avifauna that abounds the park. PALLE ON THE SOAPBOX: DON'T RIDE ELEPHANTS If you've followed me for a while, and especially heard my episode from Chiang Mai in Thailand, you will know how I feel about elephant riding. You should never ever do that. The elephant back is not built for it, and it's just plain cruel to do so, in my opinion. A guy from the company that did the vill
S4 E141 · Thu, October 17, 2019
141 INTERVIEW: ShEvo On Returning Home After Years Abroad
Sheila Dee and Evo Terra are friends of mine. I met Evo in Manilla at TBEX Asia in 2016, and when I got to Bangkok a few months later, they offered me to stay with them. At that time they were living in a beautiful condo with a fantastic view of Bangkok, after traveling the world for a few years. It started as a sabbatical became an epic world-wide journey for over three years. They basically did what I did: Sold everything to explore life on the road – and (like me) they were podcasting about it. One day they got a call from their son and daughter in law telling them that they were about to become grandparents. And that made them decide that it was time to return to their home town, Phoenix, Arizona. And that's where I meet them – in their podcasting studio, that they call ShEvo Studio. In this episode, we talk about what it's been like coming back to "the first world." Together Sheila and Evo have done different podcasts. The newest is called ShEvo vs. The First World . Evo Terra is a podcasting expert. He runs a podcasting consulting company called Simpler Media Productions and an interesting podcast about podcasting called Podcast Pontifications . LINKS: ShEvo vs. The First World Simpler Media Productions Podcast Pontifications . Radiovagabond er produceret af Radioguru . Sponsor Hotels25.dk Følg også RadioVagabond på Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E140 · Sun, September 22, 2019
140 SRI LANKA. Things to See in Central and Eastern Part
We're back in Sri Lanka for the third episode about what this country has to offer. And now, it's time to leave Colombo. THINGS TO SEE IN THE EAST AND THE MIDDLE OF SRI LANKA In this episode I will share (at least) five things, I would recommend you to explore in the central and eastern part of Sri Lanka. Pineapple Farm Ridee Viharaya Koneswaram Temple Sunrise on the beach in Trincomalee Riding Bullock Carts and Canoe Catamaran in Habarana I'm on a press trip, invited by Sri Lanka Tourism, and I'm exploring the country with six other content creators. Let me introduce them to you: It's Joanna from TheWorldInMyPocket.co.uk Romina from MissTourist.com Viola from TheBlessingBucket.com Maria and Katarina from ItsAllTripToMe.com And Serena from ThePeterPanColor.com Even though we're only seven people and could easily fit into one minibus, Sri Lanka Tourism have put us in two minibusses, for extra comfort. The two drivers, Fernando and Pradeep, also works as our guides. The first day on the road we're heading across the island from Colombo in the southwest to Trincomalee in the northeast. Even though the distances aren't that vast, it's going to be a full day of driving – with a few stops on the way. Trincomalee is a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka. PINEAPPLE FARM Our first stop was at a pineapple farm called Pineapple Village. It was the first time I had seen how pineapples are grown and trying to taste them of the tree. What surprised me was that they pit salt and chili on them. RIDEE VIHARAYA – THE SILVER TEMPLE Halfway across the island, we stopped at a Buddhist temple, called Ridee Viharaya . Ridee (sometimes spelled Ridi) means silver and Viharaya means Temple, so "The Silver Temple". It's built under a rocky mountainside and looks stunning. I was amazed that it was possible to build it under this colossal rock more than 2,000 years ago without it crushing it. According to the legend this was only possible because the king had two giants to help them carry the mountain. Of course, that makes sense. Why didn't I think of that? Inside the temple, there were many statues of Buddha and well worth a visit. Ridee Viharaya has its beginnings in a series of cave d
S4 E139 · Mon, September 09, 2019
139 INTERVIEW: The State of Travel Content Creation 2019
This weekend I attended the BorderlessLive conference in London. It’s a brand new two day event organised by Traverse Events and WTM all about travel content creating and how we as content creators can work with brands and destinations. I had the pleasure of moderating a panel and we decided to put it out as a podcast right here. So if you’re a writer, blogger, YouTuber, Instagrammer or podcaster, this might be interesting for you. ON THE PANEL: Kim Leuenberger, @kim.ou and @travellingcars Sandy Breitmeier, Sandy Makes Sense and on YouTube Daniel James, Dan Flying Solo Karl Watson, Karl Watson Travel Documentaries and on YouTube LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E138 · Mon, September 02, 2019
138 SRI LANKA. Is the Country Safe to Visit after Terror Attack?
We're back in Sri Lanka for the second episode in this miniseries with tips on what you should see on this island. In this episode, we're still in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Join me as we will be attending a cocktail party with some beautiful traditional music and dancing. Also, I speak to the Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism about what the terrorist attacks in April 2019 meant for this country, its people, and tourism. BEST MASSAGE EVER After a fantastic breakfast at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel, we went to a spa called Siddhalepa Ayurveda, and it's a fascinating place. They produce their own herbal products like oil, balm, medicine, and toothpaste. It's also a hotel and a part of the hospital. It's a medical treatment center, they do cooking classes, and then they do massages – but not without talking to a doctor first. "We don't do any treatment before a doctor consultation," Ushan, their senior marketing manager tells me. When it was my turn, I told the doctor about my shoulder pain that I got after the flight from Doha to Sri Lanka. It was still very painful, and I was hoping that this treatment would be able to help just a little bit. After getting the best massage I've arguably had in many, many years, and using their Ayurveda balm for a few days, my shoulder pain went entirely away. We also got a small cooking demonstration and learned a lot about the different herbs and spices, while Ushan explains. "We are mixing with herbal spices; no ketchup, no butter, no coloring. We're using coconut milk but no dairy. It's not completely vegan; we sometimes use white fish." "BEST COUNTRY TO VISIT 2019" WAS ATTACKED After the civil war ended ten years ago, Sri Lanka has turned itself into a popular tourist destination, winning the title of the best country in the world to visit in 2019 from travel guide publisher Lonely Planet. It was a big deal, and the country was ready for it. This could mean so much for this developing country. And then in April 2019 terror hit the country in eight coordinated attacks in four different cities. Four days later the Sri Lankan Health Ministry estimated that 253 people died, but the number ended up being closer to 300. The toll on tourism has been tremendous on the island state. Back at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel that night, I got to speak to the chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism, Kishu Gomez. "It was a big, big setback and we saw the tourism numbers going down to rock bottom levels in May." However, Mr. Gomez is optimistic about the future and feels confident that they soon will be able to go back to the original levels. "This time it was Sri Lanka, that became a victim, and it could happen anywhere. If we stay away, then we'll be strengthening terrorism. The entire world has to work together, stand together to combat global terrorism." </p
S4 E137 · Mon, August 26, 2019
137 SRI LANKA. Welcome to The Drop-Shaped Island
Almost ten years after the end of its civil war, Lonely Planet has named Sri Lanka as the best country in the world to visit in 2019. And this is where we’re heading in this and the next few episodes. I’m taking a small detour from my episodes from Africa, to bring you something that happened very recently. If you were waiting to hear what happened to me at the hospital in Cape Town – and everything else at the southern tip of Africa, don’t worry. It will be out after this detour. But in this and in the next few episodes, I’m taking you to Sri Lanka. It’s my first visit to this country, and that brings my country count to 84. A ROUGH NIGHT FLIGHT When I was heading down here, I had a stopover in Doha, Qatar. The flight from Doha to Colombo was a bit more than five hours. It was a “red-eye” in the night from 1.40 local time – and it was a bit rough. I couldn’t sleep and had very little room to move; partly because the guy in front of me took the seat all the way down, so it was a few inches in front of my face. I know, it’s your right to put down the seat, and maybe it’s just me, but I can’t help thinking about the person behind me. It’s a bit silly, but I always do it very slowly… centimeter by centimeter. I don’t just take it down in one go. This guy did. It was mostly a problem for me when they served dinner. It was impossible to access my tray table with his seat back. He didn’t put it back up until I tapped him on the shoulder and asked him to. Also, I had pains in my legs, my chest, and especially my right arm and my shoulder. I don’t know why but could hardly lift my arm. It was rough, and I didn’t sleep a wink that night. I’m telling you this so you can know how I felt when I had to go through immigration. IMMIGRATIONS TOOK FOREVER It was one of those typical airport immigrations with around ten different counters. You choose a line, wait for a while and go up to an officer when it’s your turn. He looks at your passport and the visa, types a bit on a keyboard and stamps your passport – and in this case also puts in a small sticker that he prints out on a special little printer. I picked a line, and when I could see that the line beside me was a little shorter, I chose to jump over to that line. That turned out to be a mistake. The lines weren’t that long. I think I only waited around 10 minutes before it was my turn. At this time it was 9.40 in the morning local time. In the recordings, you can hear in my voice that I was cheerful and feeling good despite my lack of sleep. I was having a friendly chat with the smiling officer. He did all the things he had to do and pressed “print” when he was done processing everything. He only needed to print that little sticker to put in my passport. But then the sticker didn’t come out. It got stuck inside the printer. And that sticker was the last one on the roll,
S4 E136 · Wed, July 24, 2019
136 ETHIOPIA. The Worst Day in Addis Ababa
This episode is about the second half of my one full day in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. As you might remember from the latest episode, the first half of the day was amazing. I landed in the middle of the biggest religious celebration of the year and went for a drive around the city with a local guide. When I got back I got a text message from my doctor that makes me think I only have a few more months left to live. And as if my mood wasn't bad enough I finish the day of by falling for a scam. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E135 · Mon, July 22, 2019
135 ETHIOPIA. The Best Day in Addis Ababa
When I left you on my African journey, I was in Conakry, Guinea, in the western part of Africa. By then I had been traveling overland – except for one flight from Dakar to Conakry – in small crammed cars and minibusses on bad roads. ROUGH TRAVELING It was from Fez in the northern part of Morocco to Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Tiznit, Tan-Tan. Then back to Tiznit when I needed to go to the hospital, down to Dakhla in Western Sahara, Nouakchott in Mauritania, Dakar in Senegal, The Gambia, Cap Skirring in Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and then back through The Gambia to Dakar to catch a flight to Conakry. All in all the transport overland was 5750 kilometers – more than 3500 miles. The busses in Morocco was fairly nice, but then they became smaller, older and much more noisy with a lot less room to move. Sometimes those tiny minibusses had a live squealing pig tied to the roof. And sometimes, it was the so-called "sept-place." Usually, an old Peugeot station wagon converted into a seven-seater. Seven plus the driver. None of these have air-conditioned or any schedule. They leave when all the seats are sold. You always had to negotiate the price, and always knew that you were paying many times more than the locals. Just because you're a white westerner – so obviously you're rich. The last of these drives was the last leg of the 1000 km drive from Guinea-Bissau to Dakar. Here I negotiated too hard and "only" paid double everyone else, and as punishment, I was given the worst seat in the back corner of this old Peugeot. It was the seat with the lowest ceiling and less legroom than any other seat. As the tallest man in the car I couldn't feel my legs after 10 minutes and kept banging my head against the metal beam in the ceiling right over my head whenever the car hit one of the many potholes on the roads. And they were all over. I'm not saying this to give the impression that I hated my three months in Western Africa. Because I didn't. On the contrary: I loved it! I met so many amazing people, and it was such an adventure. But I was tired – both mentally and physically, and started to look into a way to get down to one of my favorite cities, Cape Town. I came across a flight with Ethiopian Air from Conakry. On the same ticket I was able to have a two-day stop-over in a country and a city, I hadn't been to before. So instead of flying south from Conakry to Cape Town, I was heading straight east – to Addis Ababa. BIGGEST RELIGIOUS EVENT OF THE YEAR As soon as I landed, I checked into Bole Skygate Hotel – a nice little airport hotel, and the next morning I was woken up by the sound of thousands of people getting ready for a parade outside my hotel. I went out into the area where the parade was going on. This is a religious celebration called Timkat. It's the most important ceremony of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, the feast of the epiphany that cel
S4 E134 · Wed, July 17, 2019
134 INTERVIEW: Harry Mitsidis Has Been Everywhere (2:2)
This is part 2 of my talk to Harry Mitsidis, the founder of Nomad Mania and possible the person who’s been to most places in the world. In this episode Harry shares some of the many stories from his travelling life.
S4 E133 · Mon, July 15, 2019
133 INTERVIEW: Harry Mitsidis Has Been Everywhere (1:2)
I'm in England to meet a true travel legend. Harry Mitsidis, the founder of Nomad Mania , and the person who arguably has been to most places in the world. Nomad Mania is a community for extreme travellers and a website that divides the world into 1281 regions. When you fill out the regions you’ve been to you will appear on different rankings, which includes Cities, Sights, Museums, Islands, Airports and lots more. For that Nomad Mania is quite unique. It’s the only website listing travel achievements through so many aspects and the aim is to create an active multicultural community of travelers, which inspires travel while being a true reference to all 1281 regions of the World. On the Master Ranking list Harry himself is number one. He’s been to 1188 of the 1281 regions. Obviously he’s been to every country in the world. All the 193 UN nations. He did his last UN country, Equatorial Guinea in March 2008. Since then he’s all most been to all of them again. But there’s so much more than just jumping quickly into a country to say that you’ve been there. It’s about really being there – seeing, sensing, meeting, understanding and comparing. Traveling has become Harry’s way of life, and staying put has become increasingly hard. Harry Mitsidis was born in London to a Greek father and a South African mother, and has grandparents from Poland and Turkey. So there was always an international element to it all, and this just grew and grew through the years. Already in 2001 he had visited all the countries of Europe, and then he aimed for the whole world, which initially started as a joke but gradually, as it became within his reach, turned into an obsession. Before we sit down for the interview, Harry takes me for a stroll through Chatham – the town where he lives. He wanted to show me just how ugly it is. Then we sit down for a talk about travel and in the second episode, Harry shares some of the adventures he's had in his traveling life. Nomad Mania also does a podcast called The Nomad Mania Podcast , hosted by Ric Gazarian. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com The Radio Vagabond is produced by RadioGuru . You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , <a href="https://twitter.co
S4 E132 · Mon, July 01, 2019
132 ANTIGUA & BARBUDA. I Met The Former Miss Antigua
Welcome to the third and final episode from Antigua in the Caribbean. Here you can join us on a so-called Triflexcursion. It's a small startup company run by Mark and Giles. TRIFLEXCUSION We're going on a 2-hour biking, hiking and kayaking tour. First, we ride 15 minutes through St. John's to a beautiful beach, where we get into a kayak – two people in each – and paddle through a mangrove reserve for 30 minutes. Then we get back on our bikes and ride a further 10 minutes to Fort James National Park. But before we go up there, we make a rest stop at the beach. I MET MISS ANTIGUA Here on the beach, there's a small restaurant in a shed. When I enter, there's an older woman with the back to me. She's singing, and I see her being on the phone. Somebody tells me that she's live on the local radio right now on a program is called "The Shut-in Show" – and that this is something she does every Sunday. Her name is Yvonne, and after she hangs up, I chat to her. She shows me a small picture of herself in an old book. The text beside the picture reads: "Former model turned restaurateur. Yvonne "Candy" Pilgrim has run the Candy Lane beach bar and restaurant since 1976. Located near the historic Fort James, the venue is popular with locals and tourists alike." She tells me that she was Miss Antigua in 1967. FORT JAMES WITH CANONS AND A DISCOTEQUE IN RUINS We finish the Triflexcursion up a hill at historical Fort James. It's a place where there are some old canons and a house that some years ago it was used as a discotheque. Now it's abandoned and in ruins. But an exciting place with a great view. And that was all from my fantastic trip to Antiqua. LISTENER RESPONSE I received an email from Daniel, a listener in Dubai: Hi Palle, I have just been listening on my earphones while out on my morning run. It was the Conakry Podcast, so the background traffic noises had me looking over my shoulder thinking it was errant motorcycle or taxi! Your podcasts are quite addictive and a great way to get a dose of vitamin 'travel' in between the two long stretches of the real thing for me. If you're ever in Dubai again let me know. I have met up with many , including Torbjørn Pedersen and Ric Gazarian on their travels passing through the city. Looking forward to your adventures around the world to come. Cheers, Daniel Whitfield Thank you, Daniel. I'll be coming to Dubai in December, so I hope I'll see you then. Daniel mentions Torbjørn Petersen and Ric Gazarion. Tor is an amazing traveler. A Dane who is traveling to every country in the world without flying in one single unbroken journey. You can follow his project on onceuponasaga.dk. And Ric is also a good friend of mine. We've met so far in three different continents. In fact, I met him in London just a few weeks ago. He does a podcast called Counting Countries - where I was a guest recently. He also does another podcast called The Nomad M
S4 E131 · Thu, June 27, 2019
131 ANTIGUA & BARBUDA. Must-See on Antigua
In this second of three episodes from Antigua, I’ll take you to some of the must-see places on the Island. We’re going to Devil’s Bridge, Shirley Heights for the sunset, learning to sail a small sailboat and a few other places. FACT ABOUT ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Antigua & Barbuda is one of the smallest countries in the world, both in population and in size. The population is around 80,000, and it’s 170 square miles – so slightly smaller than Andorra and somewhat bigger than Malta. The official language is English, and the currency is East Caribbean Dollars, but you can just as easily use US Dollars. The biggest of the two islands – and the one we’re on is Antigua, 30 miles south of Barbuda. Here is a population of 65,000, and a bit more than half of those living in the capital, St. John. on the northwest coast of the island. Antigua is 14 miles long and 11 miles wide. LEARNING TO SAIL Sailing a small sailboat is not complicated. Well, that was what the instructor told us. We would soon find out just how easy it is. After the brief introduction to the art of sailing, we got into four small sailboats – four in each with an instructor. We took turns being the captain of the boat. We had to move from one side to the other whenever we changed direction. And that’s where we should keep our heads down when the boom under the sail moved from one side to the other. At some point when it was Jamie’s turn of being the captain, he forgot to warn us and the boom came with high speed towards my head. I only just took my head down; otherwise, it would have hit me in the forehead and most likely knocked me out or in the water. Thank god I survived, because there are so many other adventures ahead here in Antigua. SHIRLEY HEIGHTS The highest peak of Antigua used to be called Boggy Park. It rises to a height of 1,319 ft so you can hardly call it a mountain. But they do now. On August 4, 2009, and Barack Obama’s 48th birthday the Antiguan Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer renamed it to Mount Obama. In this episode, we’re going to another place with a view: Shirley Heights. It’s a perfect spot for a sunset on the south tip of the island – overlooking The English Harbor. Every night it draws a crowd for that view. There are a few restaurants and bars serving rum punch and a great steel band, and according to the managing director Valerie, it’s the best steel band in the world. Listen to my chat with her in this episode. Hear how she and her brother transformed this historic place to a tourist attraction. THE WEATHER IN ANTIGUA The climate is tropical, and the temperature doesn’t change much over the year. Sure, most of the Caribbean is warm and sunny, but Antigua holds the distinction of being the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean Islands. The temperatures average mid-70s in the winter and mid-80s
S4 E130 · Mon, June 24, 2019
130 ANTIGUA & BARBUDA. Arriving to a Caribbean Paradise
This week I have three episodes for you from the island Antigua in the country Antigua and Barbuda. It is truly a Caribbean paradise. I've been invited to go on a trip with around 40 content creators on this trip. There are some of the worlds best travel bloggers, YouTubers, Instagrammers, and then we're two podcasters. We're going on a direct transatlantic flight from London Gatwick with Virgin Atlantic. Antigua and Barbuda is a country in the West Indies, lying between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. ABOUT ANTIGUA & BARBUDA It consists of two major islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and several smaller islands. The permanent population is about 80,000, and the capital and largest port and city is St. John's on Antigua. The island of Antigua was explored by Christopher Columbus in 1493. The first European that stayed on the island was Spanish and French. But they soon decided to leave the island due to the lack of fresh water. Then it was colonized by Britain in 1632; and Barbuda island in 1678. They grew tobacco and ginger on Antigua – using slaves from Africa. After 349 years as a British colony, Antigua and Barbuda gained independence in 1981. Antigua and Barbuda remain a member of the Commonwealth and Elizabeth II is the country's queen. We're staying at The Veranda Resort and Spa, an All-Inclusive Resort, around 30 minutes from the airport, and they had two small busses waiting for us. The experience starts as soon as we arrive when we are welcomed with an inviting tropical drink. And then we get the key card and get in a small golf cart that takes us up and down the hills inside the area to our cottage. I'M STAYING IN ANTIGUA ON ANTIGUA IN ANTIGUA & BARBUDA All the cottages in The Verandah Resort have names. Named after destinations in the Caribbean. And by pure coincidence, my villa is called "Antigua." I felt a bit privileged to be the one getting that one. My cottage is 700 square feet (65 m2) and classic Caribbean-style architecture and décor, with a private veranda with a beautiful view through sliding glass doors. This is where I spent most of my time when I was here - and also where I did the interviews that I published the last month. It has a look and feel of a cozy Caribbean cottage, with white-washed trim and pale-green exteriors with a porch in the front. The resort is in quite a big area with I don't know how many white wooden houses. They call them villas and suites. Suites can accommodate up to 4 persons and The Villas up to 6 persons. There are a lot of small roads inside the resort with a lot of hills. It's an excellent way to get some exercise. Or you can get on one of the small open golf-cart-busses they have driving back and forth, and even pick up the phone and say that you would like one to drop by and pick you up. There are quite a few dining options, with a great variety of restaurants and a beach grill. When you stay here, t
S4 E129 · Fri, June 07, 2019
129 INTERVIEW: Meet Adventurous Kate
She calls herself Adventurous Kate for a reason. On her blog she shares stories of the time she was an extra in a really, really bad German movie, when she got naked in public and took a boob to the face in Istanbul, when she hit on Jon Stewart in New York City, which subsequently got her mocked on The Daily Show, and in this episode, Kate will talk about the time she was shipwrecked in Indonesia. At age 26, she quit her job to travel the world alone. She spent six months in Southeast Asia and turned her travel blog into a full-time business. Nine years later, she's based in New York but still traveling. When I meet her she's done 77 countries and 7 continents. As a travel blogger she is a superstar. One of the first and one of the most succesful. This is her story.
S4 E128 · Fri, May 31, 2019
128 INTERVIEW: Meet Paul & Michael from Traverse
In this episode I speak to the two founders of Traverse Events, Paul Dow and Michael Ball. They do multiple events every year for people in the travel industry. They also arranged the trip to Antigua where this interview is recorded. Next week they do their main event of the year, the annual Traverse. This time in Italy, and I'm doing a workshop about starting a podcast. This episode is made possible by The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and Elite Island Resorts - and produced by RadioGuru . LINKS: Traverse Events Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E127 · Fri, May 24, 2019
127 INTERVIEW: Meet TravelTomTom
Apart from my regular travel episodes, I put out these interviews as bonus episodes whenever I meet an interesting traveler. And today is no exception. With a view of a beautiful bay from my balcony in Antigua - and a close drink within reach, I sit down with Tom Grond. Calling himself Travel TomTom, he has been a full-time traveler since 2012, and like me, he wants to visit all the countries in the world. Learn how he travels and how he's making money to sustain this dream life. LINKS: TravelTomTom: Blog , Facebook , Instagram , Twitter Sponsor Hotels25.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E126 · Mon, May 20, 2019
126 GUINEA: Surprise – I Fell in Love with Conakry
In this episode I go for a walk in Conakry and meet more expats. A couple of John and Sheriff from Sierra Leone and Nico from South Africa. You can hear a lot more about this country where I felt like I was the only tourist. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E125 · Fri, May 17, 2019
125 INTERVIEW: Meet Daneger & Stacey
I met Dane and Stacey on a recent prestrip to Antigua in the Caribbean. They are full-time travelers, digital nomads, and produce travel videos from their journey. We have a chat about how they travel, where they've been, and what it's like traveling as a couple and being together 24-7. Enjoy. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com DanegerAndStacey.com Daneger & Stacey på YouTube See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E124 · Tue, May 14, 2019
124 SENEGAL: Massive Detour to Get to Guinea
Friends told me that going overland into Guinea could easily get me held up by the police for no other reason than they wanted a bribe. So they recommended that I went all the way back to Dakar in Senegal and take a flight to Conakry. They also said that they didn't really like the country. Would I have a different experience? I met some of the locals, and in this first of two episodes from Conakry, you can meet the first one. It's Tim, a French expat who likes the country a lot. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E123 · Mon, May 06, 2019
123 GUINEA-BISSAU: Saving Children of Africa
Guinea-Bissau is one of the poorest countries in Africa – and hereby the world. I travel with minibus from Cap Skirring to the capital Bissau, and by random coincidence my host is a countryman. In fact there are many Danish doctors and scientists living and working in Bissau. They work with Bandim Health Project. It’s a health and demographic surveillance system site situated here in Guinea-Bissau. Bandim Health Project follows a population of more than 200,000 individuals in urban and rural Guinea-Bissau. This provides a Unique platform for conducting health research. It was founded by the Danish anthropologist Peter Aaby. He came to Bissau in 78 and set out to understand the reasons for the high mortality among children in Guinea-Bissau. At that time every second child died before it was five years. Peter Aaby began to register and monitor the population in the suburb Bandim - and so he created a unique research station, the Bandim Health Project. The project is the oldest of its kind in Africa, and one of the largest. One night he and his wife Svetlana - a wonderful African woman - invited me to eat with his colleagues. Officially it’s called the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. It covers 36,125 km² (nearly 14,000 sq mi) with an estimated population of 1,9 million. When it was declared independent in 1973 and recognised in 1974, the name of its capital, Bissau, was added to the country’s name to prevent confusion with Guinea (formerly French Guinea). Most of the population speaks Crioulo, it’s a Portuguese-based creole language, and the rest speak a variety of native African languages. It’s a very poor country. The country’s per-capita gross domestic product is one of the lowest in the world. LINKS: Bandim Health Project Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E122 · Fri, April 19, 2019
122 INTERVIEW: Meet The Crowded Planet
Margherita and Nick, are long-term travellers and lovers of nature, wildlife and the outdoors. I met them at the ITB in Berlin in March 2019. Traveling is their full-time job. In this episode we will found out how this is possible. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube . Visit TheCrowdedPlanet.com . You can also find Nick og Margherita on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , Twitter and YouTube . Click here to read the story about getting lost in Malaysia.
S4 E121 · Mon, April 15, 2019
121 SENEGAL: My Adventures in Cap Skirring, Senegal
In the next episode, I’ll tell you more about Cap Skirring. I’ll tell you about the unusual taxi system here. What it’s like to be a white westerner here. I’ll talk to my Belgium hosts at the place I ended up staying, and then I meet a young gay Gambian man, who works as a boy toy for elderly white women - and he shows me a picture of himself that I wish I never saw. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E120 · Tue, April 09, 2019
120 SENEGAL: Heading from The Gambia to Southern Senegal
I've been to Senegal before, but that was in Dakar in the northern part of the country. After a week in The Gambia in the middle of Senegal I'm heading further south to the beach town, Cap Skirring in the southern part of the country. Before I leave Banjul, I talk to the Polish hostel-owner, Marek about how he ended up right here after years as a full-time traveler. On the trip down to Cap Skirring I travel with another Danish guy, Alex, who just happened to go the same way. I enjoy Cap Skirring so much that I decide to extend my stay with another week. So I go looking for another place with better wifi. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E119 · Thu, March 14, 2019
119 THE GAMBIA: Luxury in the Forest in the Middle of The Jungle
We got the opportunity to spend a few days at Mandina River Lodges, the most amazing place in the middle of the forest around half an hours drive from the small capital of The Gambia, Banjul. Mandina River Lodges is founded by two Englishmen, Lawrence Williams, and James English. Lawrence is a friend of a friend of mine - and also an avid traveler with an exciting story. Unfortunately, Lawrence wasn’t in The Gambia at the time we were there, but I promise to catch up with him at some point to get his story. James English is his uncle. Or was. Because he passed away very unexpected in 2012, five weeks after being diagnosed with cancer. James and Lawrence had been traveling a lot together and now, whenever Lawrence visits a new country, he spreads a little bit of his uncle's ashes in the country as a gesture. A thing that almost got him arrested in North Korea. Like I said: He has a lot of stories that I promise I’ll have hin share at some point when I finally meet him. For years James had been searching for a piece of land suitable to create a tourism project, and on Christmas Eve 1992 they found Makasutu. Today Mandina River Lodges is run by his former wife, Linda English. And it was only after James passed away that Linda came down here. In fact, the thought it was a crazy idea to put money in a piece of forest in The Gambia. She’s been here six years already and loves the place. Makasutu is a tropical 1000-acre reserve encompassing five different eco-systems. Fifteen thousand trees were planted over the next few years, and the wildlife came back. Now the wildlife is plentiful with many bird species, monitor lizards, baboons, vervet and red colobus monkeys, and the occasional crocodile, and even the odd mongoose can be spotted on the riverbanks. In the afternoon on the first day we were invited to go for a walk through the a with a local guide, dressed in green and khaki and with a monocular around his neck ready for bird watching. Makasutu, meaning ‘sacred forest’ in the local language Mandinka, and they started it as both an ecology project and a place for people to come and learn about the local culture and people. James and Lawrence spent the first seven years living in tents on the land, with no running water or electricity. They did this getting to understand the land and environment, which is why you notice the attention to detail that has gone into the design and construction. The initial idea was to a small backpackers lodge, but after many nights sitting around the campfire they decided to try to help in the re-foresting of the area, and eventually to open the site as a cultural reserve, highlighting how the local people live, and also to encourage the return of wildlife to the area. One thing lead to another and instead of the small backpackers lodge they decided to develop a five-star eco-lodge like no other in West Africa. Construction began in 2000, with as many as
S4 E118 · Mon, February 25, 2019
118 SENEGAL: Our Taxi Driver Got Lost in Dakar
Our bus out of Dakar was leaving at 7 am. Join a stressfull situation where a taxi driver couldn't find the bus terminal. Also, you can meet a local Senegalese artist and an Italian girl working for Unicef. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E117 · Mon, February 18, 2019
117 SENEGAL: Welcome to the Westernmost Part of Africa
In last weeks episode, we were making our way down through The Sahara Dessert. And our plans kept changing. Partly because of me recovering from my pneumonia and partly because promises weren’t kept. We weren’t picked up and driven down to the capital of Mauritania in a nice big Mercedes - just the two of us. Hours later we were seven people in a smaller very old beat up Peugeot station wagon. When I left you in the last episode, I was trying to cross the border between Western Sahara and Mauritania - with my travel buddy Edvard - and a group of locals and our local driver. From the windows, we couldn’t see much more than sand and camels. Sometimes we would drive through a small village with some tiny houses. The roads we were driving on were full of potholes as big as bathtubs. But that would only get much much worse as we entered Mauritania. This is a developing country. Their GDP ranks it at around number 140 out of the 193 UN nations in the world. Mauritania is a country with 400,000 sq miles and a population of around 4 million people. It took us around 4 hours to get the passport stamps and be allowed to enter the country. When you cross a border like this, there are typically people offering to change your money. Something I would never do, but in this case, it was recommended to do so. Much to my surprise, the exchange rate you get here is much better than you would get in a bank in the city. So with a bit of Mauritania cash, “Ouguiya” we continued the drive. We only drove a short distance from the border to an intersection. And we were super confused because we had another 300 miles before we would arrive in Nouakchott. I remember thinking "OMG what now. Another checkpoint…?” Then they unloaded our bags and stopped a random car. They asked the driver if he could take us down to Nouakchott, and when he did, we got into the car and continued. This was a huge upgrade. This was a relatively new BMW without a scratch. The driver could speak English and apart from him doing his best to avoid the many potholes on the road this was very nice. Especially for Edvard. He finally got the "shotgun position" beside the driver, and I was crammed into the backseat that was full of luggage. It could barely fit a 10-year-old in there. And I’m a lot bigger. The driver is a guy from Dakar going back in his new car after having worked in Italy for six months. When we got to our hotel Nouakchott it was after midnight. He drove us to our hotel and he said that he would sleep a few hours before continuing at 4 o’clock. He asked us if we wanted to join him all the way to Dakar. He mentioned a very fair price for it, and after having seen a bit of the city looking for the hotel, we honestly didn’t think that this seemed like a place with too much to see. Also, we only thought about getting down to Dakar where we had a lovely Airbnb for a week. With this drive, we would be in a nice car with a nice guy, and wouldn’t have to worry about finding another crappy c
Trailer · Sun, February 17, 2019
116 Introduction for New Listeners
I can see that new listeners are joining me every week. Welcome. To let you catch up, I've dine a quick bonus episode where I explain how and why I made a decision to become a digital nomad and full-time traveler at the age of 50 years old. I also let you know what you can expect in this podcast in the future. Enjoy - and again: Welcome.
S4 E115 · Mon, February 11, 2019
115 WESTERN SAHARA: A Road Movie Through The Dessert
Join Edvard and me as we work our way from Tiznit in Morocco via Dakhla in Western Sahara towards Mauritania. We start in a café in the morning where I have to break the news to Edvard that I'm not able to do a 17 hour bus ride because I'm still sick. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E114 · Mon, January 28, 2019
114 MOROCCO: A Real Nomad and My Visit to a Hospital
In this episode, I speak with Mokhtar, who has grown up as a true nomad in the Sahara Desert. Just until he became a teenager, he was almost nothing but his family, a bunch of goats and a lot of sand — no TV, radio or other things that we take for granted. Also, he does not know when he was born beyond the fact that it was in 1962 and it was under a sandstorm. I'm talking with him just before we're on our way back to Tiznit. I have become ill and need to go to the hospital. You can join me the way to the doctor's office and hear what's wrong with me. Also, I get help from my new friend, Omar - "The Butcher from Tiznit." Omar is a great help in a difficult situation and in addition to paying my hospital bill (even though I'm insured) he invites Edvard and me home and have dinner privately with him. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E113 · Mon, January 21, 2019
113 MOROCCO: The Butcher from Tiznit
We have a lot to cover in this episode. I’m in the southern part of Morocco and first we visit the little city, Tiznit. Edvard and I become good friends with the local butcher, Omar. Them we travel further south to another small city called Tan-Tan. On the way there we’re stopped twice, first by the customs and then by the police. Both times they only want to see the passports from me and Edvard. Very weird, but an indication that we are getting close to Western Sahara. In Tan-Tan we meet two wonderful people that have offered to host us for a few days, we get caught in the first rain in this part of Sahara for years and then I get a fever. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E112 · Wed, January 16, 2019
112 MOROCCO: Quad Buggy Buddies on Camels
In this episode we go outside Marrakech to drive ATVs - or Quad Buggies as they call them here in Morocco. And then we ride into the sunset on camels. Enjoy this episode. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E111 · Mon, January 14, 2019
111 MOROCCO: The Magic Man of Marrakech
Before we arrive to Marrakech we meet a Polish guy who’s doing his own race - that he calls ‘Krakow-Dakar’. In Marrakech we do the ultimate tourist thing and hop on a red ‘hop-on-hop-off-bus’. In the Mediana (the old town) we meet a magic man. And then Edvard gets a henna-tattoo and is not happy. Enjoy this episode. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E110 · Fri, January 11, 2019
110 Meet Martin, a Different Nomad
As a digital nomad, this guy is different than most of us, as you will get to hear in this episode. Also, he is one of the nicest guys I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know through the Nomad Cruise. His name is Martin Locklear, he's American, and he works for Zip Recruiter as a programmer. We both have a few things in storage back home, we have both been traveling full time around two and a half years, but this is where the similarities stop… Martin has a very different way of traveling than me. He’s more the definition of a slow traveller. Enjoy this episode. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E109 · Mon, January 07, 2019
109 MOROCCO: Uber Driver in Rabat Wants to Leave His Country
In this episode I am still in Rabat, Morocco and continue the hunt for visas. It can be hard to get a taxi on the streets in Rabat, so on Monday morning we booked an Uber, even though Uber technically is illegal here in Morocco. And the first Uber driver was a young bright guy with a good English. He had a lot of dreams for for himself and his country, and seemed like a good representative for the new generation of Morocco. So I decided to give him my five questions that didn’t work out so well in Fez. And unlike the royalist there - that wouldn’t say anything negative about his country, it was very different with the Uber driver, Jad. This and much more in this episode of The Radio Vagabond. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E108 · Fri, January 04, 2019
108 INTERVIEW: Meet Johannes, the Founder of Nomad Cruise
DANISH: RadioVagabond.dk Johannes Voelkner started his digital nomad lifestyle in 2010. As much as he enjoyed working while traveling, he was missing like-minded people around him, sharing the same values and lifestyle. He took action – he was organizing events for entrepreneurs and digital nomads for years and created a Facebook group for digital nomads called Global Digital Nomad Network (currently one of the largest of its kind with over 36,000 members). One day in 2015 he came upon a cheap travel deal across the Atlantic and posted it in his Facebook group. 100 applications in 3 weeks convinced him it was worth turning into a business – and Nomad Cruise was born. Since then it has grown a lot. Nomad Cruise 6, my first, from Malaga to Athens had 249 attendees from 42 countries, and this one that just brought us across the Atlantic from Barcelona to Brazil Nomad Cruise 7 broke all previous records with almost double that: 492 participants on board from more than 50 countries. Today Johannes and his team are running two cruises each year building friendships, collaborations, projects and most importantly – a community of like-minded people. In this episode of The Radio Vagabond, we dive into the history of Nomad Cruise and take a look at what’s on the horizon, as we talk about the future of the company and their new project Homebase Global. LINKS: Nomad Cruise Home Base Global The Facebook Group: Global Digital Nomad Network Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S4 E107 · Mon, December 31, 2018
107 MOROCCO: Visa Hunting in Rabat
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk Together with my travel buddy, Edvard I'm moving on the train from Fez to Rabat in Morocco. Here I talk to him so you can get to know the guy, I'm going to be traveling with for a while in Africa. You can also join us as we start our hunt for visas to many African countries. A hunt that turns out not to be without challenges. Enjoy - and happy New Year. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E106 · Fri, December 28, 2018
106 INTERVIEW: Meet Curtin, An American Rex
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk Here is another conversation with a full-time traveller, and this guy is quite a character with an interesting story. His name is Greg, but he goes by the name of Curtin. He's not like most people and is very spontaneous when he makes decisions. Even big ones. In this episode, you can hear how he ended up in Europe playing rugby, which is not so typical for an American, and how he spent very little time deciding to move from China to Uganda. Also, about his time as a rugby player in England. And much more. Enjoy. LINKS: Curtins website AmericaRex.com Sponsor Hotels25.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S4 E105 · Thu, December 27, 2018
105 MOROCCO: Welcome to Fez
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk This is it. The fourth season of The Radio Vagabond Podcast starts right here. You can travel with me through Africa, and we start in the northwestern corner of the biggest continent in the world, and slowly move south through Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea. But there's much more ahead after that. In this episode you can follow me right from the moment I'm walking towards the airport in Billund, Denmark. Many hours later - close to midnight I arrive in the heat in Fez, Morocco. When I finally get to the hotel the night guy at the hotel couldn't find my reservation. Also, you can hear me when I insult the king of Morocco. Here on this leg of my journey I'm not traveling alone, another digital nomad will join me and in the next episode you can get to know him a lot better. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E104 · Fri, December 21, 2018
104 INTERVIEW: Meet Maverick Matt Bowles
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk Monday morning the new season of the regular travel shows in The Radio Vagabond Podcast will begin. You can join my adventures in Africa and we begin in Morocco. At the same time you will get interesting conversations every Friday and this is the first. All of these interviews have been recorded recently when I joined The Nomad Cruise across the Atlantic. In fact this one is recorded in the middle of the ocean. Meet Matt Bowles. He has been a full-time nomad for five years. We talk about ways of traveling, loneliness, networks, podcasting, the art of traveling with carry-on luggage only and about a giant table-top espresso maker. And much more. In the conversation we also talk about different communities for nomads, and if you would like to join here are a few links that will get you a discount on your membership: "Remote Year" ($200 discount): Click here . "Hackers Paradise" ($100 discount): Click here . Disclosure: These are affiliate links where Matt makes a little bit. But it doesn’t make it more expensive for you. Other networks/communities for nomads: Nomad Cruise and WiFi Tribe . You can access Matt's video on packing and see links to all his stuff by signing up to his newsletter on MaverickNomadLife.com . Here you can also see the bicycle pump espresso maker, he is talking about. Listen and subscribe to Matt's podcast The Maverick Show by searching for it in your favourite podcast app. I will be a guest there in the near future. And finally: Link to Matt's company, Maverick Investor Group . OTHER LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
Wed, December 19, 2018
FLASHBACK: Nashville
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in August 2017 in Nashville. See pictures here .
Mon, December 17, 2018
FLASHBACK: North Korea
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in March 2017 in North Korea. See pictures here .
Sat, December 15, 2018
FLASHBACK: Pattaya
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in December 2016 in Pattaya.
Thu, December 13, 2018
FLASHBACK: Alabama
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in Juli 2017 in Alabama. See pictures here .
Mon, December 10, 2018
FLASHBACK: Malaysia
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in November 2016 in Malaysia. See pictures and video here .
Fri, December 07, 2018
FLASHBACK: Macau
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in November 2016 in Macau. See pictures and video here .
Wed, December 05, 2018
FLASHBACK: Chiang Mai
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in December 2016 in Chiang Mai. See pictures and video here .
Sun, December 02, 2018
FLASHBACK: Beijing
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in marts 2017 in Beijing. See pictures and video here .
Fri, November 30, 2018
FLASHBACK: Cambodia
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in February 2017 in Cambodia. See pictures here .
Tue, November 27, 2018
FLASHBACK: Nicaragua
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in August 2017 in Nicaragua. See pictures here .
Sun, November 25, 2018
FLASHBACK: Bahamas
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in June 2017 in The Bahamas. See pictures here .
Fri, November 23, 2018
FLASHBACK: Macedonia
While I'm working on the next season you will get some flashbacks from the first two years of traveling. This episode was recorded in August 2016 in Macedonia. See pictures here .
S3 E103 · Mon, November 19, 2018
103 Meet Travel Blogger Skye Class
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk I have been to my first WTM (World Travel Market) in London. It's a huge event where the travel industry meet every year and make deals. Also, a lot of travel influencers meet here and network with destinations and other brands. One of them is Skye Class from SkyeTravels.com that I've met many times before when I've been to travel media conferences around the world. Skye is from Beverly Hills and has been traveling full time like me. He's very professional in his approach and I feel I can learn a lot from him. Hope you feel the same. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See an bunch of pictures from WTM on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E102 · Wed, November 14, 2018
102 USA. Humans of New York - Part 2
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk This is part 2 of the special "Humans of New York" where I ask the same five questions to six New Yorkers. Here you will get their answers to "what is your biggest dream in life?" and "if you could go anywhere, where would you go?" In the end of this episode you can join me as I go to the top of the tallest building in the western hemisphere, One World Trade Center. This was the last episode of Season 3. I will reveal where I'm going in the next four seasons. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E101 · Mon, November 12, 2018
101 USA. Humans of New York - Part 1
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk Here is a special episode that I chose to call Humans of New York The Podcast. Here I ask the same five questions to six very different New Yorkers. Rafael, a Columbian that moved here when he was three. Bill, a 34 year-old New Yorker that I met one morning when I was taking a walk by the river. Cecilie, a 30-something Danish artist and singer songwriter that moved here to New York 6 years ago. Brian, a guy in the music industry that discovered Nora Jones. Fran, a music producer Elias, a caterer that is born in the Dominican Republic. In this episode you will get the answers to the first three questions: What's the best part about living in New York? What's the worst part about living here? If you were supreme leader of the city what would be your first executive order? Part 2 will be out in a few days. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E100 · Sun, November 04, 2018
100 USA. Take a Bite of The Big Apple
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk I’ve arrived to "The Big Apple", as it's been called. The greatest city in the world, the city that never sleeps. The city that's sp great that you have to name it twice. I've been here many times before and I'd almost forgotten just how great it is. If it wasn't for the fact that everything is so expensive I could live here for a longer time. When I arrive and see the skyline I almost peed in my pants. I'm staying in Brooklyn, from where it's easy to get into Manhattan. In this episode I go sight seeing and talk to a few locals. In other words: I take a big bite of the apple. You'll get two episodes more from New York. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E99 · Fri, November 02, 2018
99 INTERVIEW: Meet Alexa from Break Into Travel Writing
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk Here is another chat with an inspiring person in the travel industry. Today, I meet the host of the Break Into Travel Writing Podcast, Alexa Meisler. In her podcast, Alexa gives out a lot of tips on how to get success as a travel writer. I met Alexa at the first TravelCon convention in Austin. Another travel blogger arranges this event - and he's probably the biggest of them all: Nomadic Matt Kepnes. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E97 · Fri, October 26, 2018
97 INTERVIEW: Meet Roobens – Been Around The Globe and Black
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk This is another interview with an interesting travel blogger, that you might find inspiring. Meet my good friend Roobens. Not only is he a cool guy that I've met at three travel conferences this year, but he's also a great travel blogger with an interesting story. He's a Frenchman who travels around the globe and blogs about his journeys and how it is to travel as a black European. Since Roobens (like me) has been to many travel media conferences this year, I ask him what he’s learned. And he says that the biggest thing he’s learned is that you have to hustle as a travel blogger. Next Friday I speak to Alexa Meisler from the BreakIntoTravelWriting Podcast. LINKS: Roobens blog Been Around The Globe Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E96 · Mon, October 22, 2018
96 USA. "Unknown Pianist #100" from Washington D.C.
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk On my last night in Washington D.C. I was in the area of Union Station. Here I talked to an afro-American street musician. He calls himself “Unknown Pianist Number 100”, and used to be homeless. He had a lot to share and that shows another side of the American capital. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E95 · Fri, October 19, 2018
95 INTERVIEW: Meet Travis Sherry, Extra Pack of Peanuts
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk When I was planning my new lifestyle as a location independent traveler, I listened a lot to Extra Pack of Peanuts - a podcast from Travis Sherry. We met in Austin and became friends. In this episode of The Radio Vagabond Podcast, Travis shares his story and a lot of travel tips. Enjoy. LINKS: Extra Pack of Peanuts Jetto Location Indie Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E94 · Wed, October 17, 2018
94 USA. I Met a Lobbyist in Washington DC
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk I continue my trip with Rob from TriphacksDC - and then I meet one of the many lobbyists who work here in the US capital. Rob recommended me to visit The Capital. Here I heard a lot about the history of the building. It takes an hour and is entirely free. Then I continued my walk with Rob this Sunday afternoon when there was an event going on at The National Mall. We are talking about the fact that Washington D.C. is not in any American state. Rob believes, like many others living in this district, that this should become the 51st state. That way the stateless district would consist of The National Mall and the area up to The Lincoln Memorial and the White House. So the only inhabitants of the district would be the president and his family, while the remaining 680,000 people would live in this new state. Rob also gives me more tips on how to "attack" Washington D.C. as a tourist. I meet the lobbyist, Ian Goldstein, in a park not far from The Mall. Just before I meet him, I'm back at the Washington Monument, located between the Capital Building and the Lincoln Memorial. In a large circle around this monument, there are flagpoles. I did not speak, but I guess that there are 50 flagpoles – one for each state in the United States. What was unusual about this particular day was that they were all on half-rod. This is because this is the day after the horrific mass shooting in Las Vegas, where a man opened fire into a crowd at a concert - with 23 full or semi-automatic weapons from 32nd floor in a high-rise building not that far away from there. He just fired in the crowd and killed 58 people and injured more than 800. He managed to fire more than 1,000 shots, and it is to date the most deadly mass shooting done by a single person ever in the United States. Ian, the lobbyist, does not work with gun legislation, but he's close to where the decisions are taken. You can hear his take on what's going to happen now after the massacre in Las Vegas. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E93 · Mon, October 15, 2018
93 USA. Touring The Mall in Washington DC
DANISH : Radiovagabond.dk I've started my second road trip in the USA. It will take me from North Carolina to New York, via Washington D.C., Atlantic City, and Philadelphia. On my way to American capital, I pass through Charlottesville. I wanted to see if I could find the statues that caused so much debate and violence in 2017. My first stop in D.C. I go to The Newseum, and then I meet with a local tour guide called Rob Pitingolo. I found his YouTube channel and found out that he has a company called TripHacksDC. Rob took me around "The National Mall" between The Capital and The National Monument. The place where people meet for the inauguration of the president. You know the area where there was so much talk about crowd sizes. Listen to this episode and learn a lot about Washington D.C. and life here. LINKS: See Rob's videos and listen to his podcast on TripHacksDC.com Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E92 · Fri, October 12, 2018
92 INTERVIEW: Meet Rolf Potts, Best Selling Author of Vagabonding
Before I started traveling, I listened to a lot of travel podcasts, watched a lot of travel YouTube channels and bought a lot of travel books - both audiobooks, e-books, and paper books. One book I got in both the audio and the paper version. That book was Vagabonding by Rolf Potts, and it inspired me to call myself The Radio Vagabond. I met Rolf Potts at the travel media conference TravelCon in Austin Texas just before he was to give the closing keynote in front of a room full of travel bloggers, YouTubers, and podcasters. It was fantastic to meet one of my heroes. One who inspired me a lot in my planning to go traveling. If you want to be inspired too, get the book Vagabonding. In my opinion, it’s the best book about living this lifestyle. Period. Find the paper version on Amazon and the audiobook on Audible . LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube . Next Friday you can listen in as I talk to another guy that has inspired me a lot. I started listening to his podcast Extra Pack of Peanuts, and he’s got a company and another podcast with our mutual friend Jason Moore from Zero-to-Travel called Travel Indi and through their project “The Paradise Pack” they help people live a location independent lifestyle. He’s even got an app that helps you find cheap flights called Jetto. He’s an overall nice guy, and his name is Travis Sherry. On Monday morning you’ll get another regular travel podcast where I’m heading to Washington DC, and pass through Charlottesville. You know the city where there were "fine people on both sides", according to Trump. I had to pass through to see the notorious statues.
S3 E91 · Wed, October 10, 2018
91 USA. Asheville & The Sit-In Movement in Greensboro
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk I got to Asheville and met a friend, that I made in Chiang Mai, and her sister. We had some outstanding food and crashed a party at a bankers convention. Back in Greensboro, I went to the International Civil Rights Center and Museum and bumped into the CEO, John L. Swaine. He tells me the story of how the Sit-In Movement started by four students right here and changed history all over the USA. LINKS: International Civil Rights Center and Museum Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadiovagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E90 · Mon, October 08, 2018
90 USA. I Got a Speeding Ticket in North Carolina
DANSK UDGAVE: Radiovagabond.dk On the way back from picking up my housesitting host, Davina in Virginia we say a sign: "Tattoos, Coffee, and Bible Studies". That made us stop and we ended up spending an hour with Dr. T that runs the place. He's a very interesting man that grew up in Iran and was friends with The Shah's son. The next morning I got a speeding ticket. Not my proudest moment, so I had no protests. But I did protest when he wanted to give Davina a ticket for letting me drive without a license. He had never seen a Danish drivers license before, but it is valid in The USA. For the details on this, listen to this episode. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E89 · Fri, October 05, 2018
89 INTERVIEW: Meet Cory Lee on Disabled Travel
As a traveler, I often get asked the question: Isn’t it difficult? Isn’t it dangerous? How do I do this or that? Then imagine that you’re in a wheelchair. - How do you fly as a wheelchair user? - Which hotels are the most accessible? - What beaches have powered beach wheelchairs? - How do you charge your electric wheelchair in a foreign country? - What cities are the most wheelchair friendly around the world? There are so many questions and so many obstacles. But that doesn’t stop Cory Lee. He is a wheelchair user and is traveling the world and does a blog called Curb Free With Cory Lee . Here he shares stories to show other disabled people how to travel, where to travel, and most importantly, why a person with a disability should travel. I met Cory at TBEX in Corning New York where he did a truly inspiring keynote and received a standing ovation. And when I met him again at TravelCon in Austin. At the age of two, he was diagnosed with SMA - a rare condition that confined him to a wheelchair. Visit Curb Free With Cory Lee . TravelCon is a brand new conference organized by Nomadic Matt and his team - and was really great. There were a lot of great speakers there, and I already had a few of them on this podcast. Like The Vagabrothers in episode 15 , Chris Christensen in episode 16 and the king of travel blogging, Nomadic Matt Kepnes himself in episode 18 . And then I talked to a handful of other great people that you can hear in the upcoming Fridays. And of course, every Monday to can follow my journey from North Carolina to Washington DC, Atlantic City, Philadelphia and New York.
S3 E88 · Mon, October 01, 2018
88 USA. High Point – The Furniture Capital of The World
DANISH: Radiovagabond.dk High Point, North Carolina is not a big city. It's got a population of around 107,000 people, but twice a year the population almost doubles when they host High Point Market where 70,000 people in the furniture industry meet. Even though the next High Point Market is only a few weeks away, the CEO of High Point Market, Tom Conley took the time to see me. How did this happen? And why is the worlds biggest furniture store in this small city? Join me in this episode where I'm looking for answers to these questions and many more.
S3 E87 · Fri, September 28, 2018
87 INTERVIEW: Meet Shane Dallas, The Travel Camel
DANSK UDGAVE: Søg efter “Radiovagabond” (ét ord). It's time for another interview with a traveler. Shane Dallas is from Australia and calls himself The Travel Camel. Shane has been to more than 100 countries but have decided to slow down on getting to new countries. Not that long ago he settled down in Kenya with his wife and daughter. I've met him on travel media conferences before and recently in TBEX Europe where he's the conference director. This is recorded in Upstate New York at TBEX North America, and we talk about traveling, Iran, the travel media industry, and the controversy of TBEX deciding to do a conference in Zimbabwe.
S3 E86 · Mon, September 24, 2018
86 USA. My First Pride in North Carolina
DANSK UDGAVE: Søg efter “Radiovagabond” (ét ord). North Carolina got some bad press a few years ago when they passed a new law - the so-called "Bathroom Bill", that bans individuals from using public bathrooms that do not correspond with their biological sex, as dictated by their birth certificates. Thank god this crazy law was repealed in may 2017. So it was quite fitting that I got the chance to attend Greensboro Pride and you can join me when I went for a walk in Main Street Greensboro. Here I met one of the hosts, a colorful transgender woman, called Anjelica. I also meet Eric Raudsep, who is "Libertarian". He's got "The Most Gayest Quiz" and one of the questions blew my mind: "Is it okay for gay men to be blood donors in the USA?" What do you think? Suddenly I see a few men with big wooden crosses preaching that it's a sin to be gay. It goes without saying that they are not that popular here with thousands of gay people. I speak to Julia, that is trying to tell people that they should ignore them and not be provoked. I was curious why they decide to come and talked to one of them. Next Friday you can hear another interesting chat to a fellow traveler. His name is Shane Dallas and he calls himself The Travel Camel.
S3 E85 · Fri, September 21, 2018
85 INTERVIEW: Meet Rick Calvert, The Man Behind TBEX
DANSK UDGAVE: Søg efter “Radiovagabond” (ét ord). We take a small break from the regular travel podcasts to bring you another interview with an interesting person in the travel media industry. So if you’re interested in the nomadic lifestyle and thinking of becoming a travel blogger, YouTuber or travel podcaster, you might find this interesting. Palle Bo: "Rick, you're the head honcho of this game." Rick Calvert: "Grand poobah, is what we like to call it. Palle Bo: "How long time have you been with the TBEX. Because it wasn't from the very beginning, as far as I understand." Rick Calvert: "Since 2012, when we bought TBEX. I actually started another event before that, called "Blog World" in 2007. So I've been actively involved in blogs since 2000, with travel blogs since 2007 and with TBEX since 2012." Palle Bo: "What's your background? How did you get into the whole game of travel blogging?" Rick Calvert: "I was a conference organizer. It was my job, I've done really really big events like a hundred thousand people. I used to work for a place; you may have heard of, called Comic Con. And I was a political blogger. I started a blog about politics, and this was again very early days, there weren't a lot of people doing that, and I wanted to go to a blogging show, and it didn't exist. So I started doing the research, and I'm like 'oh people would go to that?' And I created what we called Blog World. But we knew from the very beginning we identified these different segments that would be really important and political blogs was one of them and travel blogs were one of them. And we had a track for travel at Blog World. But Kim it started TBEX. And she's a travel blogger. So all the travel bloggers were going to TBEX. And in 2012 it was Gary Arndt the told me you should talk to Kim. You know I think Kim wants to sell TBEX and that's when we got involved." Palle Bo: And in recent years a few other similar or somewhat similar conferences have propped up...". Rick Calvert: "Imitators we call them." Palle Bo: "Do you see them as competitors or just extra angles on what you're doing?" Rick Calvert: "There are there's no other event that's the size of TBEX, that has the history of TBEX, that has the breadth of education is TBEX. So no, in that way no. Of course, there's always competition. You can only take so many trips a year, you've only got so much time. So yes that's competition. But we're friends with all those people and a lot of them got their start at TBEX." Palle Bo: "I didn't get the memo, that you can only do so many a year. I think I'm doing four this years. Plus two Nomadic Cruises. Yeah, I'm going all in this year. I don't know exactly how that happened. But for people who've never been to a TBEX, can you describe what goes on? It takes place in two days." Rick Calvert: "Yes, the conferences two days. You know, it's education. We have breakout sessions, so
S3 E84 · Mon, September 17, 2018
84 USA. Meet My Housesitting Host from North Carolina
DANSK UDGAVE: Søg efter “Radiovagabond” (ét ord). I'm in High Point, North Carolina. A small city, known as The Furniture Capital of the World. Not only do they have the world's largest furniture store, but they also host a large furniture market twice a year, where the city's population almost is doubled when 70-80,000 people come to the city. Another thing that High Point is known for is to produce the iconic American yellow school buses. I'm going to be housesitting a month here. I was connected to Davina van Buren via TrustedHousesitters.com. She's the owner of a house, two dogs and a lot of plants that I have to take care of. After the first week, Davina returned to the house and asked me to drive her to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. It's a couple of hours north of High Point, and I thought it would be a good time to talk to her about the city, about the state and herself.
S3 E83 · Sun, September 16, 2018
83 USA. Coca-Cola, CNN, Soccer, and a Dead Phone in Atlanta
I'm in Atlanta where I'm staying with my old friends from Denmark, Lars, and Marianne. Lars and I used to do a morning show on the radio back in Denmark, and they offered to host me a week here. Join me when I visit CNN started by Ted Turner back in 1976. At the time it was the world's first 24-hour news channel, and while they currently have studios around the world, CNN has its headquarters right here. The same goes for Coca-Cola, and here I also did a tour. I saw their museum, which shows the history of the iconic company. They also show a movie, and there is an area where you can taste hundreds of different flavors that they make around the world. In a large area, you can walk around from continent to continent with a cup and sample the many different kinds of sugary water. It sounds quite silly and very American, but I thought it was quite exciting to see. Atlanta is the capital and largest city in the US state of Georgia, and the main city in the ninth largest metropolitan area in the United States. The city itself has just under half a million inhabitants, but looking at the population of the metropolitan area, the figure is over 6 million. Over the past 10 years, this population has been increased by more than one million people, which, according to Wikipedia, is the fourth most substantial absolute growth among all metropolitan areas in the United States. Lars says it's a mecca for trading in this part of the United States, and so they have the world's largest airport. "There is so much happening all the time, so it's an exciting place to live," says Lars. One evening Lars asked me if I wanted to go playing soccer with him and his friends. I thought it would be an excellent way to get some exercise. And maybe a beer with his friends after the game. It turned out that we were going to play against a Mexican team. And they were really taking the game seriously. It was almost turning into a physical fight, and the referee had a busy night. One afternoon, I found out that Ed Sheeran was scheduled to play that same evening in Atlanta, and I managed to get a ticket. Lars and Marianne couldn't go so I decided to go alone. I got into an Uber and went to a concert. James Blunt was the opening act and although he probably is most famous for making ballads like "You are Beautiful," he managed to hype up the crowd before the little red-headed Englishman went on stage. Sheeran was almost three hours alone on stage with his guitar and his loop pedals, and he was fantastic. What an outstanding talent. So I filmed a lot with my phone, and when the concert ended, there was only 20% battery left. Usually, I always have a power bank so that I can give my phone little extra power, but I forgot it that night. Along with maybe 15,000 others I went outside. I ordered an Uber and just saw that I was being picked up by a gray Honda with a license plate that ended in 4144
S3 E82 · Tue, September 04, 2018
82 NICARAGUA. I Left a Bit of My Heart in This Country
DANSK UDGAVE: Søg efter “Radiovagabond” (ét ord). In the latest episode of The Radio Vagabond Podcast, we visited an orphanage in the northern part of Nicaragua. I was there with my new friend John Pappas. He’s a successful businessman from Canada that retired and is now a philanthropist. He’s now giving back to the children from needy families of Nicaragua by putting a lot of time and money into an orphanage here. Also, he’s supporting a young 19-year-old girl. "I always thought that my purpose in life was to make as much money as I could, but eventually I'm just going to take it in a box or leave it here because when I go, I have no one to leave it to. You definitely need to work hard but you also need a reason to be" , he says. "A lot of people say 'why do you do it?' and 'you help them so much', and I say 'no no, it's what they give us, is tenfold what we give them." John, says that it's like when you adopt a child, you're not saving a child - it's more the child that is saving you." NICARAGUAN CIGARS Then John wanted to show me a small place where they produce high-class cigars. According to John, the Nicaraguan cigar is outstanding. And on the way there he tells me that it’s not possible to buy Nicaraguan cigars here in Nicaragua. It's crazy, but because of the tax laws, you have to export the cigars and then re-import them. All the cigars produced here in Esteli are for export only, so they don't promote their own cigars here in their own country. So the tourists can walk away with fake cigars or Cuban cigars but can't walk away with local cigars. And then we entered the small place. Around 25 people are sitting around a few long tables rolling and shaping the brown tobacco leaves into big cigars. I can tell that these people know their craft. They’ve done this before. ALEX, THE STREET ARTIST John introduced me to Alex, the most successful street artist here in Esteli. He was a street artist pioneer, and around 20 years ago he was doing graffiti. Back in 1997 he was approached and was quite surprised. He didn’t even know how talented he was. This meeting changed his life. At the time he didn’t really know much about what he was doing but had this raw talent. And when he met two other talented street artists, he knew what he wanted to do in his life. Now, 20 years later, Alex is “the king of street art" here in Esteli. He’s got his own crew, they do a lot of work for the cigar industry. He’s even ventured into music. MANKU LAKE PARADISE In this episode, I also take to back to the lake close to Granada, where I met Fernando in the first episode here from Nicaragua. Here we were talking about the cattle company he runs where investors make a little money and help local farmers here at the same time. Go back and listen to episode #080 to hear this. We’re in a beautiful area close to the lake, Lago Cocibolca outside Granada - and right here is where there are a lot of small islands - in Nicarag
S3 E81 · Mon, August 27, 2018
81 NICARAGUA. Canadian Cigar Man Found His Life Purpose
DANSK UDGAVE: Søg efter “Radiovagabond” (ét ord). I'm driving in the mountains with my new friend John. We're 105 miles north of Managua that we passed on the way from Granada. And we're getting closer to the Honduras border another 60 miles north of there. We start this episode driving through some farmland that is mainly used for the tobacco industry. Mostly they produce cigars in this area - and that is what keeps this city alive. According to John 99% is supported by the cigar industry. I met the guy in the car in the restaurant where I'm staying in. His name is John Pappas and we became instant friends. Sometimes you meet someone where you just click, and this was one of those times. Three things I notice immediately with John: He's got a beautiful tattoo with greek gods that covers his entire right arm, he's almost always smiling and he always always has a cigar. Most of the time it's not lit - he just sits with it, like most other people would sit with a smartphone. Because John is a cigar-man. And a philanthropist with a big love for Nicaragua. And then he's Greek/Irish Canadian. He speaks English even though he's is born and raised in Montreal, Quebec in the French-speaking part of Canada. His father is of Greek descent and his mother is of Irish descent. After having been very successful building a restaurant chain in Canada he decided that he needed a purpose and a change, and he retired and got in contact with some friends in the tobacco industry here and said: "I want to give back to a country that I love and help the children" One of his friends here found an orphanage here and together they've been supporting it. He tells me that it's hard when you're working with an NGO like SOS that runs hundreds of orphanages around the world, to tell them that you want to be a part of deciding what the money goes for, but after a while, they managed to do so. In this episode, you can hear when we're driving in a poor neighborhood. We're on a dirt road with tiny houses on each side and a huge building at the end of it. That's probably the largest tobacco factory in the area. John wants to show me the orphanage he's working with. And as we're approaching we can see a little bit of a difference. We see less garbage, freshly painted, and everything looks a bit nicer. This is a Sunday morning and a quiet day here. It's not normal for guests to be able to visit this orphanage so I feel lucky that John would take me there. John tells me that most of the children are not orphans. Most of the children are abused in multible ways. And the thing with sexually abused children is a big problem in this country. I've heard someone say that maybe one out of three children has been abused here. So they have a rule that all males should leave the orphanage before the sun goes down. Even John, that they know. But the rule makes sense. Also, this
S3 E80 · Tue, August 21, 2018
80 NICARAGUA. Learning Spanish and Meeting the Locals
DANISH VERSION: Radiovagabond.dk This episode is dedicated to the people of Nicaragua. Right now the country is going through the worst trouble since the civil war ended in 1990. Hundreds have been killed since the protests broke out in April this year. I did talk to people who were unhappy with the president and the system but when I was there in August 2017, everything was peaceful. I really hope that everything will come back to normal, so the country can prosper. MY NEXT HOME IN CENTRAL AMERICA My flight from Chicago touches down in Managua in the afternoon and after a 45-minute drive to Granada, I arrive at my next home. It's a called Paraiso Granada. The next two and a half weeks I’m staying in a wonderful apartment here in the center of Granada. It’s way bigger than what I need. I have two big bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a huge living room. At the end of that, there is a wonderful kitchen. Total luxury. I’m on the first floor and from my balcony, I have a great view of the courtyard and the pool right next to the restaurant. Paraiso Granada is about 5 minutes walk from Calle La Calzada, a lively street with a lot of restaurants and bars, and at about 6 blocks from the biggest lake in the country, Lago Cocibolca. Granada is a city in western Nicaragua 27 miles south-east of Managua, the capital of Nicaragua. With an estimated population of 125,000 Granada is Nicaragua’s sixth most populous city. A DUTCH MANAGER OF THE HOTEL The hotel manager, Ellen Winter is originally from The Nederlands. She came to Nicaragua in 2001 and is now living in Granada with her family. And her extended family - as she calls the staff at the hotel. I ask Ellen what it’s like managing people from another continent than what we’re used to in Western Europe. She tells me that the can feel that the education level is not as high, so sometimes she has to say things many times. But she also sees the staff coming up with ideas on their own. Ellen says that the city hasn’t changed so much since she came to the country 16 years ago. Maybe more cars, more traffic, and more tourists, but other than that not too much. The people are still happy and friendly. And that’s the number one reason why she fell in love with this country. - In Holland we have to make appointments two weeks in advance, Ellen says. Here if I call friends and invite them to come over, people will show up. People here work to live and not live to work. She’s got a Nicaraguan husband and two children, a 4-year-old boy and an 8-year-old girl. And none of them speak any Dutch. It’s all only Spanish. I WENT TO SPANISH CLASS One of the things, I promised myself to do when I got to Central America, was to find a Spanish teacher to improve my Spanish. So I find a teacher and get five days of private tutoring. The day before my first class I do a warm-up a
S3 E79 · Fri, August 17, 2018
79 INTERVIEW: Meet Mike Huxley from The Bemused Backpacker
DANISH VERSION: Search for Radiovagabond (one word). When I was at TBEX Travel Bloggers Conference I met Michael Huxley from the Bemused Backpacker. Not only he's a great guy, but he's also got one of the biggest travel blogs in The UK. In this episode, I sit down with Mike and he's sharing a lot of great advice for travel bloggers and for people thinking about becoming one. LINKS: Thank you to Michael Huxley from The Bemused Backpacker . Get his books here . Travel conferences: TBEX , TravelCon , and Traverse . Sponsor Hotels25.com Music with license from FindTheTune.com Pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E78 · Thu, August 16, 2018
78 INTERVIEW: Meet Gary Arndt, Everything Everywhere
DANISH VERSION: Search for Radiovagabond (one word). In this episode, I meet one of the legends in the travel blogger business. His name is Gary Arndt and we sit down for a short chat about what he does. We also talk about his trip to Antartica. LINKS: Thank you to Gary Arndt from Everything Everywhere . The Global Travel Conspiracy Podcast This Week in Travel Podcast Sponsor Hotels25.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .
S3 E77 · Wed, August 15, 2018
77 INTERVIEW: Meet Jen on a Jet Plane
DANISH VERSION: Search for Radiovagabond (one word). Today I speak to Jen Ruiz from Jen on a Jetplane. She's got a travel blog packed with stories and travel tips. And she wrote a book about how to get cheap flights. LINKS: Visit Jen on a Jetplane . Get Jen's book " The Affordable Flight Guide ". Sponsor Hotels25.com Music with license from FindTheTune.com Pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .
S3 E76 · Tue, August 14, 2018
78 INTERVIEW: Meet Adam Rickys from Bucket Vision
DANISH VERSION: Radiovagabond.dk We're doing something special this week. Five short chats with travel bloggers. One every day until Friday. Today we meet Adam Rickys from New Zealand. His project Bucket Vision has close to one million followers on Facebook. LINKS: Bucket Vision on Facebook . bucketvision.com Sponsor Hotels25.com Music with license from FindTheTune.com Pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .
S3 E75 · Mon, August 13, 2018
75 INTERVIEW: Meet A Couple of Dreams
DANISH VERSION OF THIS PODCAST: Search for Radiovagabond (one word). Welcome to a special week on The Radio Vagabond Podcast - before I continue on my journey next Monday from Nicaragua. From today until Friday you will get a new episode every day. Five conversations I had with travel bloggers that I met a conference in The Czech Republic recently. I will speak to wonderful talented people from Israel, New Zealand, USA, Puerto Rico and England. Meet Adam Rikys from Bucketvision, the legend Gary Arndt, Jennifer Ruiz from Jen on a Jetplane and Mike Huxley fra The Bemused Backpacker. Today I speak to the Youtubers Ashley Fairfield and Rotem Metuki from A Couple of Dreams. The first time I met them was in South Africa where we stayed at the same hostel. LINKS: Thank you to Ashley & Rotem from A Couple of Dreams. Find deres YouTube channel here . Sponsor Hotels25.com Music with license from FindTheTune.com Pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com Follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .
S3 E74 · Mon, August 06, 2018
74 USA. Danish Kringle is a Big Hit North of Chicago
DANISH VERSION: Search for Radiovagabond (one word). With a population of only 77,000, Racine, Wisconsin is not a big city, but has the largest North American settlement of Danes. When Danish immigration begins in the 1840s, Racine quickly becomes "the most Danish city in America" with 10% of all Danes in the USA. This is still visible now; as I drive into the city I see a lot of Danish flags and shops with Danish names. In this episode of The Radio Vagabond Travel Podcast, I’m in Racine, Wisconsin, 75 miles north of Chicago, to visit a Danish bakery. And to find out if I can get a taste of Denmark, or just an Americanized version of it. HOW DANISH BECAME DANISH At the time of the immigration to Racine, The Danish Bakers Association goes on strike back in Denmark in the 1850’s, and bakers from Vienna, Austria are brought to Denmark to fill the need of skilled baking. They use their knowledge of dough folding to create new types of pastries. The Danish bakers see this and add additional ideas, fruits, and fillings. Danish Dough and Pastries as we know it are born. This particular kind of pastry is called “Danish” throughout the world, but in Denmark, we call it “Wienerbrød” – which translates to “Bread from Vienna.” Kringle is introduced to Racine at the turn of the century; at that time, the Kringle was still in its traditional "pretzel" shape with a limited number of fillings. A number of family-run Danish bakeries were opened in the 1930's. THE OLESEN FAMILY COMES TO RACINE Finding it difficult to sustain himself and his six children in Denmark, Anton Olesen sets off for America in the hope of a better life in the beginning of the 1920’s, and two years after arriving he scrapes enough money to bring his teenage son Christian to Racine. Christian finds a job in a local bakery, and after learning the baking trade for 25 years, Christian Olesen opens his own bakery with a partner in May 1949, naming it O&H Bakery. Racine customers begin to request more filling in pastries, particularly in Kringle, leading to Racine bakers creating a new oval shape for Kringle to satisfy their customer's desires. In 1956, Dwight and Lady Mamie Eisenhower receive a Kringle as a gift, proclaiming it publically as one of their favorite pastries. Christian's son Ray and his wife Myrna purchase the business in 1963, and in 1982 Eric Olesen, the third generation of Olesens take control of the bakery. In June 2010, President Barack Obama stopped at an O&H Bakery before hosting a town hall meeting on the economy and jobs later that afternoon, and in July 2013, after over a century of it being made in Racine, Kringle is signed into law as "The Official State Pastry of Wisconsin." MEET ERIC OLESEN In this episode, I go for a tour of O&H Bakery with Eric and also meet a part of the 4th generation of the Bakery. Not only do we t
Bonus · Mon, July 30, 2018
73 INTERVIEW: Gaz is Global Country Counter
In Chicago, I meet Ric Gazarian, who also travels a lot. And then he's hosting a podcast called Counting Countries, where he talks to some of the few that has traveled to all the countries in the world - or are very close to having done so. On a sidewalk café in downtown Chicago, we meet for a chat about Ric's own story as an avid traveler and how he finds the balance of traveling a lot and still maintaining a home base in Bangkok where he lives now. Visit Counting Countries by clicking here .
S3 E72 · Mon, July 23, 2018
72 USA. Real or Fake in Chicago
I’ve arrived to Chicago, one of the biggest cities in the USA. Even though I’m only going to spend a few days here, I really feel at home here. In this episode I go to the legendary Wrigley Fields, where I meet some baseball fans, I go out for a beer with my Couchsurfing host, Lee, I eat Chicago-style deep-pan-pizza with my old friend, Kurt, I’m a guest on the legendary WGN Radio and go to see a 2’nd generation immigrant Kirsten that runs a Danish bakery. Yes, a lot can happen in 24 minutes.
S3 E71 · Mon, July 16, 2018
71 USA. Not a Trump Fan but a Trump Voter in Ohio
In this episode, I’m in Ohio. On my way from Indianapolis to Toledo, I drove through Walnut Creek, which is famous for its large Amish community. I stayed with David - a lobbyist and former Republican politician. He used to live in Washington DC but now has moved back to Toledo. Dave and I had a long talk about Donald Trump. We talk about the Billy Bush tape, fake media, Hillary Clinton, and why he voted for Trump despite his dislike towards him. You can also join me as I run out of gas on my way to Detroit, and get unexpected help from a random stranger. Also, I saw something weird in Dave’s backyard. Episode sponsor: Hotels25.com
S3 E70 · Tue, July 10, 2018
70 USA. I Served Beef to an Indian in Indiana
In this episode, I’m in Indianapolis, Indiana, where I’m staying with an Indian Couchsurfing host. She is very kind and cooks me a wonderful Indian dinner the first night. So I offer to cook a typical Danish dinner for her on the second night. With beef. Not ideal when she’s Indian. To cook in someone else kitchen was also not without problems. Also, you can join me when I go to Indianapolis Motor Speedway and get a private tour with Berny. This is where they drive the legendary Indi500, and kisses bricks.
S3 E69 · Tue, June 26, 2018
69 USA. I Got a Permanent Souvenir in Nashville
I continue my road trip through the United States and have arrived in the music capital of the world, Nashville. Here I’m staying with Steve, my Couchsurfing host. He’s a musician and just to mention one he’s apart of a fake punk band called Snake Vomit. They specialize in playing 20-second songs with funny titles. But he’s also part of a few other bands where they actually rehearse and play in the same key. Steve and I visit a local restaurant that is so good at making spicy chicken that they don’t have to be good at anything else. Also, I visit Athens right here in Tennessee and the local Toastmasters Club where I win the speaking competition of the day. And then I decide to get a tattoo of a drawing that my daughter made in 30 seconds. All this and much more in this episode of The Radio Vagabond Podcast. You can see Steves band Snake Vomit here - and his adventure rock band, Lipstick by clicking here .
S3 E68 · Sun, June 17, 2018
68 INTERVIEW: Brazilian Couple Traveling Full-Time
Before we continue my American road trip I’ve got an extra episode for you that I hope you will find just as interesting as I found making it. Because sometimes I run into some interesting people that I just have to talk to and share with you. This happened when I was attending the Traverse conference in Rotterdam in May. It’s an event for travel bloggers and here I met Natalie and Robson from Brazil. They are traveling the world full time like me – and they document their journey on their blog loveandroad.com. Nat & Rob are a smiling outgoing couple with an interesting story, so I pulled them aside for a chat.
S3 E67 · Tue, May 22, 2018
67 USA. Couchsurfing & Paddleboarding in Chattanooga
Chattanooga is a smaller city in the state of Tennessee. I stayed there one night and made friends with my Couchsurfing host, Casey. We talk about the city, the area, paddleboarding, murals, and "global weirding", as Casey calls it. Episode sponsor: Hotels25.com
S3 E66 · Tue, May 15, 2018
66 USA. The Legendary Gip's Place in Alabama
In this episode, I visit Gip's Place, the legendary Juke Joint in the small sleepy city, Bessemer in Alabama. Here I meet the 97-year-old Henry "Gip" Gipson. Gip's Place has been operating since 1952 and many of the big names of rock and blues have played right here in Gip's backyard: James Brown, Elvis Presley, John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and many others. Watch the PBS-documentary about Gip's Place by clicking here .
S3 E65 · Sun, May 13, 2018
65 USA. Sweet Home Alabama
On my way to Alabama, I passed a little sleepy city called Clarksdale in Mississippi. Here I find The Rock & Blues Museum and then it’s also home to “The Voice of God”. Join me on a drive through the state that Justine in Memphis calls Trump Country and that the people here call Sweet Home Alabama.
S3 E64 · Mon, April 30, 2018
64 USA. The King Was Killed Right Here in Memphis
In this episode, I continue my chat with my Couchsurfing hosts, Tracie and Maureen about their city. Also, I visit The Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King JR was killed 50 years ago. Today it’s a part of The National Civil Rights Museum. And then I go for a drive around Memphis with my next host, Justine. She’s not a big fan of Trump and the people that voted for him. But she has a gun. Or does she?
S3 E63 · Fri, April 27, 2018
63 USA. My Hometown, Randers vs. Graceland, Memphis
I’m moving from At. Louis to Memphis, where rock’n’roll was born. Join me in a conversation with my Couchsurfing hosts, to Sun Studios, Beal Street and Graceland. Here I make myself unpopular when I tell them that I come from Randers, Denmark, hvor my friend Henrik Knudsen has made a replica of Graceland.
S3 E62 · Thu, March 29, 2018
62 USA. I Told a Lie When The Dog Ran Away in St. Louis
In St. Louis I spend a lot of time in their wonderful Forrest Park. An outdoor movie theatre, musical, the best zoo in The United States and then I try to go to the art museum there. Twice. Also, I go to the top of The Gateway Arch and eat Ted Drewes Custard. In this episode, I also share the story of how I told a lie to the owners of the house I'm taking care of when the dog ran away after I set off the fire alarm. Not my proudest moment.
S3 E61 · Tue, March 06, 2018
61 USA. Tarot Card Reading & All That Jazz in New Orleans
I decided to drive down to New Orleans to celebrate 4th of July. As always there’s a lot of music and life in Bourbon Street in The French Quarter. And then there was a guy offering tarot card readings. On the way home to Natchez, I picked up a homeless woman.
S3 E60 · Fri, March 02, 2018
60 USA. Alligator Hunting and Housesitting in Trump Country
In this episode from Natchez, Mississippi, I'm talking some more to my new English friend Jac's. We're housesitting three cats and became good friends the few days we spent together. Also. I talk to two locals, Forrest and James about running, alligator hunting, having an iron butt and life in Natchez - right in the middle of Trump Country.
S3 E59 · Mon, February 26, 2018
59 USA. Being Embarrassing in Mississippi
I’ve arrived in the Deep South in the United States and have started a new leg of my journey that will take me through 22 states. And my first stop is in the small historic city, Natchez in Mississippi. Here I meet Jac’s and together we go to a cotton farm, an antebellum house, and a gospel sermon where I make a complete fool of myself.
S3 E58 · Fri, February 16, 2018
58 BAHAMAS. Eating Conch and Scuba Diving
In this final episode from Grand Bahama, I give you a bit of everything. I’m telling you more about the place I stay, I speak to two guys that also live here - and walks past me several times every night. And then we’re going scuba diving with Caribbean Divers and to a small place by the beach to eat conch. Enjoy.
S3 E57 · Mon, February 12, 2018
57 BAHAMAS. It Was So Much Fun - But Now I Feel So Ashamed
On Grand Bahama I decided to go swimming with dolphins with the company UNEXSO. It was an amazing experience. Now I found out that it is very wrong to do this, partly because of the way they are being captured and the way they are kept in captivity. Join me on the experience, and then listen to my conversation with Gail Woon from Grand Bahama. She used to be a dolphin trainer at UNEXSO. Today she's an anti captivity activist, and she can tell us a lot about why we shouldn't support the industri that keeps these beautiful intelligent animals in captivity. You should also read an article from Huffington Post about Gail Woon's work by clicking here . And if you click here you can see a clip from 60 Minutes about Taiji in Japan. A place they call “The Killing Cove”.
S3 E56 · Sun, February 11, 2018
56 BAHAMAS. For Len It Was Love at First Sight
When Len Hindley came to Grand Bahama in 1968 it was love at first sight. He created a big construction company and a good life. During that time he has witnessed the island change a lot. I met him at a Rotary meeting where I was asked to do a talk about my journey.
S3 E55 · Sun, February 04, 2018
55 BAHAMAS. Roger from The Bahamas doesn't sound Bahamian
On Grand Bahama I got to know Roger. He's born and raised in The Bahamas and moved here from the nation's capital, Nassau in 1967. So he knows the island better than most people. Even though he's Bahamian he sounds very English. So much that it has given him problems over the years. Listen to his story, life on the island, how he saw Hurricane Mathew and much more.
S3 E54 · Wed, January 31, 2018
54 USA. I Stranded in Florida on My Way to Bahamas
In this episode, I'm traveling from Montreal, Canada to Freeport, Bahamas. And I was too late for my short flight from Ft. Lauderdale in Florida to Grand Bahama. Join me, as I try to make it. I also meet a couple of young people from LGBT, trying to raise awareness of the need for equality for these minorities. Then I finally make it to "sunny Bahamas" and it turned out to be not quite as sunny.
S3 E53 · Mon, January 08, 2018
53 CANADA. I Met an Aboriginal from Bear Klan in Montreal
Montreal is the most populated city in Quebec and the second-most populated in Canada. Only Toronto is bigger. However Montreal doesn’t feel like a big city. On my first day there, I rented a bike and went downtown to the beautiful old centre by the river. Here I talk to an aboriginal from Bear Klan. I also meet three of the locals, Brigitte, Bruno and Anne-Marie. And then you get the story of Montreal importing women from France for the many men that had taken the country.
S3 E52 · Wed, January 03, 2018
52 CANADA. Quebec City Is a Charming Laid Back City
I left Toronto and have headed east to the French-speaking Quebec region. Here I will visit two cities and I start in Quebec City - a quiet laid back smaller city. In Quebec City, I rented a single room on Airbnb - in the basement of Marc’s house. He’s another cool laid back guy that I feel lucky to get to meet. If you’re going to Quebec City you should consider staying with him. Find it here .
S3 E51 · Thu, December 28, 2017
51 CANADA. The Best and Worst about Toronto
In this, final episode from Toronto, I speak to five of the locals about what the best and the worst part about living here is.
S3 E50 · Tue, December 26, 2017
50 CANADA. Got Held at Gunpoint
On my last day in Toronto, I meet one of the locals, Paul Lam. It's like history repeats itself - the same thing happened in Chiang Mai in January, where Paul arrived just as I was leaving. Paul is an inspiring cool entrepreneur, mindset coach, and digital nomad. He published an ebook about being held at gunpoint and how it changed his life. You can get it here . Also, he's also a podcaster with his extremely popular podcast The Path Hunters Podcast. I had the honor of being a guest on one of the episodes. Listen here or in your podcast app.
S3 E49 · Sun, December 17, 2017
49 CANADA. Wine, Niagara, and Then They Asked Me About Porn
In this episode, I take a drive down to Niagara Falls and the cozy little vacation town, Niagara-On-The-Lake. On my way I pass a big wine district, and stop by one of them, to find out if Canada really is able to produce decent wine. And they are. The one I've landed at is one of the biggest, Trius Winery , and I have a chat with their wine expert Takahiro Iida. In this episode, I'll also take you flying over Niagara Falls (see pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com ). Back in the studio with Humble & Fred, the conversation takes a surprising direction. Thank you to Niagara Helicopters for taking me on the flight.
S3 E48 · Wed, December 13, 2017
48 CANADA. My First Baseball Game Ever
My good friend, Steve from Toronto had invited me to Major League Baseball. Being a Dane where this game practically doesn't exist, this was my first baseball game ever. So I had to Google the rules the night before so I wasn't completely ignorant when I showed up. You can join me as Toronto Blue Jays welcome Tampa Bay Rays - please supply your own beers and hotdogs. I'm also visiting another radio show, that can be heard on satellite throughout Canada, USA and most parts of Central America.
S3 E47 · Wed, December 13, 2017
47 CANADA. Meet My Singing Airbnb Host
In Toronto I found at a wonderful Airbnb in Roncesvalles, just 30 minutes in the streetcar to downtown. See it by clicking here . My Airbnb hosts Paco and Hannah are both full time musicians. In this episode I talk to Hannah about their life here, her music and much more. Check out Hannah's website here. The music in this episode is used after permission from the artist Hannah Burgé .
S3 E46 · Wed, December 13, 2017
46 CANADA. On The Air in Toronto
I've left Asia and via Dallas and Washington DC, I've traveled to the other side of the planet. It's got 11 hours time difference so it's almost as far on the other side, as you can possibly get. I've landed in Toronto Canada, and am now ready to start on the North American continent. In this first of 6 episodes from Toronto, you meet Mike. He's born and raised in Canada but has Danish parents. And then you can hear a snippet of an interview I did with Jerry Agar on Newstalk 1010.
S2 E45 · Tue, November 14, 2017
45 JAPAN. Top 3 Things to See in This Unique Country
When I was in the Tokyo area, I sat down with my Airbnb host Gab and my two daughters. Gab is an Englishman, and he's lived there for a number of years. My daughters and I decided to do a Top 3 of what to see in Tokyo. This is where we stayed in Yokohama: Click here .
S2 E44 · Tue, October 24, 2017
44 JAPAN. Myths Busters
Japan is very clean, it's rude to be on your phone in the train, the Japanese are very polite, there's a lot of cuteness in the country, it's difficult to get wifi in Tokyo, and everything in Japan is different than in any other Asian country. These are myths that I'm testing with my daughters, Amanda and Clara in this episode.
S2 E43 · Tue, September 26, 2017
43 JAPAN. So Much Can Go Wrong In This Leg of the Trip
Flying in and out of Japan turned out to be a bit of a logistical challenge. Japan is the last country of my journey where I'm traveling with my daughter - and here I will have both my daughters by my side. But first, we needed to get on two flights, one metro, two busses, one taxi and one train. And so much can go wrong. Just one small obstacle would crash the whole plan. But we're also going to Kyoto - and you can join us.
S2 E42 · Mon, September 18, 2017
42 SOUTH KOREA. Nature Wonders On Jeju Island
Jeju Island is a volcanic island 80 miles off the coast of the Korean Peninsula, and one of the so-called “New 7 Wonders of Nature”. So we just had to see this. Right after landing we run into problems. Join us as we try to climb a mountain, meet an American girl and talk to one of the locals, that has moved from the big city to the countryside.
S2 E41 · Wed, September 13, 2017
41 SOUTH KOREA. Street Food and K-pop in Seoul
After North Korea our next stop was the second half of what used to be one country. But today it's a very different place. I'm still traveling with my daughter, Clara, and we've arrived to South Korea. We've decided to visit two places in this country, but first another big city - the capital Seoul. We meet one of the locals, Dong Mi Lee, Editor in Chief for Time Out Seoul for a talk about the country, the city, the people, K-pop and North Korea.
S2 E40 · Fri, August 18, 2017
40 NORTH KOREA. I Took My Daughter to a Dictatorship
I took my daughter to North Korea - or as they call themselves: Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. In this episode, you can join us to a crazy dictatorship where the supreme leaders are seen as demi-gods. At the border both me and my daughter are getting the big search, we meet the locals and visit many of the biggest attractions in the capital, Pyongyang. The DPRK is a very interesting place to visit. In many ways, it's a modern place and also it's like stepping back in time. And it's a place with many rules of how to behave. We were traveling with Young Pioneer Tours, the same company that did the trip with Otto Wambier. Actually one of the Australian guides was on the trip with Otto. I speak to him about what happened. Also, I might have done something myself that could have landed me in prison. All this and much more in this episode.
S2 E39 · Mon, August 07, 2017
39 HIGHLIGHTS: First Year as The Radio Vagabond
This is a special episode with highlights from my first year as The Radio Vagabond. New listeners can start here.
S2 E38 · Wed, July 05, 2017
38 CHINA. Scam, Genocide & One Great Wall
We're still in Beijing, where we get scammed, go to The Great Wall of China, a Kong Fu show and much more. Also, we talk some more to our new friend Lee about life in China - and why the Chinese still see Mao as their spiritual leader even though he was behind the biggest genocide in history killing 45 million Chinese. Music used with a license from FindTheTune.com
S2 E37 · Mon, July 03, 2017
37 CHINA. Four Big Cities and a Forbidden One
In this episode, my daughter and I will reach China. We're stopping by Hong Kong to get the visa to Mainland China. Technically Hong Kong is a part of China (with their own local government) so I choose to say "four big cities". The other three are Ningbo, Shanghai, and Beijing. This is the first of two episodes from China. Music used with a license from FindTheTune.com
S2 E36 · Thu, June 15, 2017
36 CAMBODIA. From Poor Kid to Manager
Here in Siem Reap, Cambodia we stayed at a nice little place called Tanei Boutique Villa. Here we met the young manager Put Sa, that grew up as a poor kid, but through hard work and a bit of luck had his life changed. LINK: Tanei Boutique Villa
S2 E35 · Mon, June 12, 2017
35 CAMBODIA. Top 7 Things to See in Siem Riep
Our visit to Cambodia starts in Phnom Penh, but just one day. Then we fly on to Siem Riep where there's so much to see. Here is our Top 7 things to see in the area: 1. Angkor Wat 2. Angkor Ballooning. LINK: angkorballooning.com 3. Phare The Cambodian Circus. LINK: pharecircus.org 4. The Great Escape. LINK: greatescapecambodia.com 5. National Park Koulen Mountain 6. The Land Mine Museum. LINK: cambodialandminemuseum.org 7. Pub Street LINK to our driver, Philip. Klik her .
S2 E34 · Sun, June 04, 2017
34 VIETNAM. Celebrating The Year of the Rooster
In this episode, you can join my daughter and me in the southern part of Vietnam. First in the charming little town of Hội An. After a small detour and a trip on scooters, we arrive on the Chinese New Years Eve - just as they are entering The Year of the Rooster. Everyone in our host family are dressed up and in the middle of the dinner. Also, you can join us on a bike ride to the beach where we get scammed again and on a trip to Marble Mountains close to Danang. In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) we visit The War Remnant Museum. A place that focusses on the horrors the Americans did during The Vietnam War. We also go to the famous Cu Chi tunnels that the Vietnamese communists built during the war in a forest just north of the city. We learned about the traps, saw a place where visitors could shoot machineguns and got to crawl around in the narrow tunnels,
S2 E33 · Thu, May 25, 2017
33 VIETNAM. Scooters and Nature Wonders
In Hanoi, there are so many noisy scooters. It's a hectic vibrant city. My daughter Clara is still traveling with me as we get scammed, watch the sunrise, try to find a place to eat snakes, and have breakfast with one of the locals. A woman who's managing a lot of apartments while having a full-time job, a part-time job and a new-born baby. How is that even possible? Ngan is our Airbnb-host and a very lovely woman. Click here to see where we lived . And then we went on a cruise in one of the Seven Nature Wonders of the World: Hạ Long Bay.
S2 E32 · Mon, May 15, 2017
32 LAOS. A Sweet Grandmother Was Arrested in Laos
In this episode, I speak some more to my Airbnb host Robyn. Robyn and her husband John retired here in Luang Prabang and help out their adopted son and his family running two guesthouses - and their own "Apple Sunset" Airbnb. Robyn is a wonderful woman only doing good for the poor people in Laos. And that got her arrested.
S2 E31 · Fri, May 12, 2017
31 LAOS. Waterfall and Bombs in Laos
After a month in Chiang Mai, Thailand, we chose to take the night bus to Luang Prabang, Laos. It was a hard night where one of the tires of the bus was falling a part. See the picture on TheRadioVagabond.com . But then we had a very nice stay with a retired Australian couple, Robyn and John by the Mekon River. Join us as we visit the UXO Center that tells the heart breaking story of the unexploded mombs from The Vietnam War. Also we go to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls and I talk to Robyn about how she and John ended up adopting a grownup buhdist munk and moved here to Luang Prabang. THIS IS WHERE WE STAYED: Click here to see where we stayed in Luang Prabang. I can only give this place my highest recommendations.
S2 E30 · Mon, May 01, 2017
30 INTERVIEW: Digital Nomads of Chiang Mai
In this episode, I speak to five digital nomads in Chiang Mai, Thailand - the digital nomad hotspot of the world. Andrea Wilde from Tennessee. She does website design and content writing. On her blog, Andrea does a breakdown on how much money it costs her to live this lifestyle. It’s fascinating - especially if you’re considering coming out here. WildeAtHeart.net Ron Tuch from Miami sells stuff on Amazon. It’s a very cool business model and he’s very good at what he does. He's also got a blog where he shares his adventure. RedPillRebellion.com Lebriah Jones from Tallahassee, Florida started the project My Wander Year out of a desire to see the world with her daughter. Frustrated with missing out on opportunities to live outside of the country in the past, she decided to create this opportunity for herself, her daughter, and anyone who, for whatever reason, thought it was not available to them. She takes a group of like-minded around the world for a year. MyWanderYear.com Amanda Day from Missouri does a fair trade women’s fashion called Tropical Bliss. TropicalBliss.com Karl Chmielowiec from Montreal, Canada came to Thailand to meet with the digital nomad community. Making friendship with entrepreneurs and inspiring people, he has found his purpose clarified. He is now associating with a Thai Fashion Brand and will help them expand in the online market. This aligns with his vision of entering the music market, as music and fashion makes love Episode sponsor: Hotels25.com Subscribe in your podcast app or iTunes by searching The Radio Vagabond. And please leave a comment in iTunes if you like this podcast.
S2 E29 · Fri, April 28, 2017
29 THAILAND. Elephants in Chiang Mai
My daughter Clara is now traveling with me and we decided to spend a month in Chiang Mai. We got there on December 18th and that meant that we were spending both Christmas and New Years in this place. And it so happened that our Christmas Eve was very different than anything we've ever done before. Chiang Mai is the digital nomad hotspot of the world and we made a lot of new friends there. Join us as we go feeding and swimming with elephants and also learning to cook Thai food. This and much more in this episode from Chiang Mai, Thailand. LINKS: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary . Expert Vagabond on why we shouldn't ride an elephant . PT Residence .
S2 E28 · Sat, March 25, 2017
28 THAILAND. I Found Her In Bangkok
I'm in Bangkok where I stay with Evo and Sheela, an American couple, that I got to know when I was in Manila. Also I visit my good old friend from Denmark, Nicolai. And then I go to the airport to pick up a very special young lady that will be travelling with me for the next four months.
S2 E27 · Thu, March 02, 2017
27 THAILAND. Orphanage in Pattaya
This is part 2 of my visit to The Father Ray Foundation in Pattaya, Thailand. My new friend Derek tells me about the big difference this place have done over the years for children, young kids and disabled. I also meet the 23 year old Daniel that has been a volunteer here several times. If you’re interested in learning more about the place - and maybe becoming a volunteer yourself, then I suggest that you start with a visit to their website. Click here.
S2 E26 · Tue, February 28, 2017
26 THAILAND. Walking Street in Pattaya
I go to one of the wildest party streets in the world with ladyboys, prostitutes, ping-pong-shows, gogo bars and children preforming for pennies. And then I also go to visit an orphanage - The Father Ray Foundation that is a total contrast to Walking Street. Both in Pattaya in Thailand.
S2 E25 · Fri, February 17, 2017
25 MALAISIA. I Got My Ass Kicked in Kuala Lumpur
I spent only a few days in Kuala Lumpur but two weeks on the island of Langkawi. Join me playing badminton in KL with one host, getting my ass kicked and talking functional chocolate, religion and much more with my second host. And getting attacked by a monkey.
S2 E24 · Fri, February 10, 2017
24 INTERVIEW: Meeting The Worlds First Digital Nomads
Today I’m probably talking to the worlds the first digital nomads. Carou Llou and Michel from Montreal Canada started their location independent lifestile more than 22 years ago in 1994. I met them at their temporary apartment in Chiang Mai, Thailand for a talk about their favourite countries around the world and their lifestyle, just before they moved to their next home in Hong Kong.
S2 E23 · Fri, January 27, 2017
23 SINGAPORE. Ship on Pillars
I'm still in Singapore, and in this episode, I take a walk with my new friend Tony in the downtown area. We're in Chinatown, on top of the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel and behind it in a garden that reminds me of the Avatar movie.
S2 E22 · Fri, January 20, 2017
22 SINGAPORE. Couchsurfing in a Great City/Country
I spent only a few days in Singapore, but thanks to my new friend Tony I got the most out of them. He took me walking around this fantastic city. The first day we went to Little India and ate with the hands. We talk about him being from Bali, being Buddhist by default and chewing gum being illegal.
S2 E21 · Tue, January 17, 2017
21 TAIWAN. Eating Blood and Not Being Allowed to Pay for it
I am still in Taiwan but I have moved on from Taipei to Xincheng Township in the north of Hualien County. Here I meet the wonderful B&B host family, try Stinky Tofu, visit the famous Night Market in Hualien and eat blood. I also finally get an answer to my confusion about the trash from last weeks episode. But the highlight of my time in Taiwan however is when I visit Taroko National Park.
S2 E20 · Thu, January 12, 2017
20 TAIWAN. "A Beer, Bro?" in Taipei
I have arrived in Taipei the capital of Taiwan, and I’ve found myself an apartment on Airbnb that looks great. But things are not as good as they seemed when I booked it and I have a few (if not many) bumps on the road. Hear my crazy story of problems piling up. Everything from the wifi and air-conditioning that stopped working to problems with trash, missing basic stuff, a burned hand and much more. And a lot of difficulties communicating with my host. But she did say "I owe you a beer, bro?".
S2 E19 · Thu, January 12, 2017
19 INTERVIEW: Johnny FD
Johnny FD is an entrepreneur, podcaster and a very big part of the digital nomad scene in Chiang Mai. I met him in his apartment for a talk about life as a digital nomad. I had the pleasure of being a guest in Johnny’s Travel Like a Boss Podcast. It was episode 144 end the first episode of 2017. Click here to listen.
S2 E18 · Wed, January 11, 2017
18 INTERVIEW: Nomadic Matt
In this episode, I talk to Nomadic Matt. He’s a New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and founder of the site nomadicmatt.com . Each month over 1,000,000 people uses his advice to travel better, cheaper, and longer. Matt also owns HK Austin Hostel in Texas.
S2 E17 · Mon, January 09, 2017
17 INTERVIEW: Global Degree
In this episode, I talk to Michael Graziano from Global Degree . Global Degree has a unique concept: To graduate with a Global Degree, you must visit every UN nation in the world. There are currently 193 UN member states. The idea that you can receive a real-world education from connections and experiences through travel. Visit Global Degree on Youtube .
Bonus · Sun, January 08, 2017
16 INTERVIEW: Chris Christensen
In this episode, I talk to Chris Christensen from The Amateur Traveler Podcast . He’s a true podcasting pioneer. The Amateur Traveler Podcast started July 2nd of 2005 and is about travel destinations. It helps you decide where to go next. The show usually features an interview with a destination expert or with a traveller who has been to the destination recently. The show intends to motivate people to travel.
S2 E15 · Sun, January 08, 2017
15 INTERVIEW: Vagabrothers
This week I will give you five extra episodes as part of my “Interview Series". I will start with five episodes where I talk to some of the people that I admire and feel could share some of their experiences that hopefully will be an inspiration to you - as they were for me before even before I set out on my journey. They are podcasters, YouTubers and one of them is a best selling author. In this first one it’s actually two people… It’s Marko and Alex Ayling, brothers, backpackers, and video bloggers - also known as The Vagabrothers .
S2 E14 · Thu, January 05, 2017
14 MACAU. The Worlds Highest Bungy Jump and a Loooooong Scream
From one former colony to another. In this episode of Phe Radio Vagabond Podcast, I have arrived in Macau also know as the Monte Carlo of the Orient. It’s filled with giant casinos, neon lights and a fake Eiffel Tower, but even more exciting is the view from my Hotel Room; Macau Tower, the world tallest bungy jump. Visit AJ Hackett's website to see more about the activities in the tower.
S2 E13 · Fri, December 30, 2016
13 HONG KONG. Is This China?
I have landed in a city that technically doesn’t belong to any country: Hong Kong. The city that is currently suffering under some pretty violent demonstrations caused by the The city that is currently suffering under some pretty violent demonstrations caused by the Chinese interference. Come along as I overcome the struggles of a "man-flu" and go to a bunch of secret local places with my Airbnb host, Andre, and see both skyscrapers but also beautiful nature and mountain scenery.
S2 E12 · Fri, December 23, 2016
12 PHILIPPINES. Finding Nemo and Talking to Ladyboys
I decided to see some of the beautiful tropical islands that The Philippines also are famous for. That's why I went to Bohol and Cebu a little bit south of Manila. Here I went island hopping and scuba diving. First I took a refreshment dive in Bohol and then I went for three wonderful dives at the coast of Moalboal on Cebu. I got to swim with millions of sardines and sea turtles. And I found Nemo and Dory. It was indescribable - but I try anyway. I also met a group of ladyboys.
S2 E11 · Wed, December 07, 2016
11 PHILIPPINES. Working as a Volunteer On The Enchanted Farm
The stated goal of Gawad Kalinga (GK) is to bring five million Filipino families out of poverty by 2024. I will spend two days in their The Enchanted Farm, which is much more than just agriculture. They have a wide range of social entrepreneurship projects, and there is also a university in the place where young people from poor families to educate themselves for free via scholarships. I will spend two days in their farm 'The Enchanted Farm', which is much more than just agriculture. They have a wide range of social entrepreneurship projects, and there is also a university in the place where young people from poor families to educate themselves for free via scholarships. I also meet Rafael Dionisio, the founder and leader of MAD Travel, which arranges trips to Gawad Kalinga's many projects.
S2 E10 · Wed, December 07, 2016
10 PHILIPPINES. Slumming in Manila
After some challenges being allowed to board the plane from Dubai, I have now arrived in Manila in the Philippines. It is a really hectic city I’ve landed in. Join me when I visit China Town, drive in the chaotic traffic, and when I help to mix cement in the slum for some of the houses, that the organisation Gawad Kalinga is building. Houses, that are going to stand, even when the many typhoons hit the country. And one of them is on its way right now. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S2 E9 · Tue, November 15, 2016
9 UAE. Meeting The Culture in Dubai
I’m still in Dubai and in this episode you can follow me to the old market. Also I get to talk to an Islam woman from London about the difference about the western and Islamic culture. And then I need to leave the country and that showed out to be a bit more difficult than expected. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S2 E8 · Tue, November 15, 2016
8 UAE. Open Minds In Dubai
I have left Abu Dhabi but stayed in the United Arabic Emirates. I checked into an Airbnb in the Marina in Dubai. It feels central but it's still 30 kilometres from the centre of Dubai with Burj Khalifa. Listen to my experiences in Dubai, visiting The Jumeirah Mosque that also have what they call The Sheik Muhammad Center for Cultural Awareness. They do the daily event called “Open doors. Open minds.” Here we can ask about everything. At Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall I see the biggest mall in the world and the highest building in the world. I got to see a fountain show where the water dances to the music. Also Burj Khalifa was lighting up as well. LINKS: The Jumeirah Mosque . Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S2 E7 · Thu, November 03, 2016
7 UAE. Cruising In Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the Emirates and by far the biggest and the richest of the 7 Emirates. The city itself is smaller than Dubai, but they have the most oil and therefore the most money, even though you can’t call Dubai poor. I met a fellow Dane, Peter Falck, and he's one of the many non-emirates who lives and works in the UAE. In fact, 80% of the residents in the Emirates are expats. Not locals. Peter moved there five years ago and agreed to take me for a drive around the city to tell me more about what kind of place this is. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S1 E6 · Tue, October 25, 2016
6 SLOVAKIA. Bratislava = PartySlava?
I jumped on the train from Budapest, arrived at Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia to check into a hostel. I had a few concerns about the decision to stay at a youth hostel. Like, would I feel too old compared the the 20-something backpackers and how would it be to stay in a dorm without my private space? But most of all I wanted the experience to see if this would be a good way to meet new friends. And it was. In this episode I meet Perry from California, Dries and Thijs from Belgium and Max, Rachel and Jason from Australia. I also have a chat with one of the locals, Roman Flebo about the Soviet times, about his encounters with the Russian Mafia and about life in Bratislava in general. Enjoy. LINKS: Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S1 E5 · Sun, October 09, 2016
5 HUNGARY. Things to do in Budapest
I’ve arrived to the capital of Hungary, Budapest, that really is a city in two parts: Buda and Pest on each side of the Danube river. Budapest is a wonderful place with Michelin restaurants, the Famous Szimpla Ruin Bar, lots of life and tons of tourists. You can hear about my computer problems, and my struggle to fix them, join me on a road trip west of the city, and to the museum “The House of Terror” that tells the story of the gruesome Hungarian history with the Nazis and the Soviets. Also you can hear about the different Hungarian language. It’s difficult for us to say “Budapest” and for them to say thinks like “Palle”. LINK This is where I stayed . Free Walking Tour in Budapest . House of Terror Museum . Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S1 E4 · Fri, October 07, 2016
4 SERBIA. Celebrating in Belgrade, Serbia
I’ve arrived in Belgrade and I’ve decided to stay a little longer in Serbia. Partially to digest the many impressions I’ve been bombarded with since I left Denmark 6-7 weeks ago and partially to get the time to work a little. Belgrade is the city that was bombed by NATO in 1999 and this is something still very clear in the Serbs memory. While it was happening, they gathered on the bridges to protect them while they partied with live music. I talk to a Serb about this. You will also join me on a trip to Novi Sad with three Australian backpackers and my Airbnb host Miloš. I became good friends with Miloš and his wife Marija. We were, among other things, to a concert together, and then we watched the Olympics water polo final and basketball together in their garden. I didn’t have great expectations to Belgrade but it turned out to be an amazing city and especially the Serbs won my heart. LINKS: I lived in this apartement in Belgrade. I can definitely recommend it - especially the hosts Marija & Miloš. Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S1 E3 · Thu, October 06, 2016
3 NORTH MACEDONIA. Things Got Lost in Translation
In this episode you’ll join me when I was interviewed about radio and my life as a traveller and digital nomad, and got a few surprising questions. On top of that one of the articles had a headline that was just plain wrong. In addition, I talk to the Macedonian woman, Afrodita about what kind of country Macedonia really is. LINKS Click here to see the two articles - with the English translation. Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S1 E2 · Wed, October 05, 2016
2 NORTH MACEDONIA. The Monuments of Skopje
This is the first part out of two episodes about my experiences in Skopje in Macedonia – or as you’d sometimes refer it as: The Former Yugoslavian Republic of Macedonia, which is a name the Macedonians aren’t too fond of. In this episode you can hear about my first feel of the city. The city centre is characterized by statues, monuments and beautiful buildings in a Greek and roman style. But it’s almost too much. And then it’s been really expensive. I talk with journalist Zoran Richliev who is a part of Balkan Investigative Reporting Network. He is one of the few critical journalists in the country and he has been a part of the making of a comprehensive report about the renewal of the city that has taken place in the last 4-5 years. And he isn’t too happy with what’s going on. Among other things, we talk about the Colourful Revolution. LINKS: Skopje 2014 Uncovered – Rapport fra B.I.R.N. YouTube video from demonstration Sponsor Hotels25.com See pictures on TheRadioVagabond.com You can follow The Radio Vagabond on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram og YouTube .
S1 E1 · Mon, October 03, 2016
1 Introducing The Radio Vagabond
Welcome to my podcast. My name is Palle Bo and I am The Radio Vagabond. I’ve sold my house, my car and all my furniture. Now I’m traveling the world with an ambition to visit every country in the world. In this first episode, I’m being interviewed by travel expert Henrik Jeppesen from beyondeverycountry.com He has already done it, and he did it before he turned 28.
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