Send us Fan Mail We've probably all witnessed it to some degree or at least seen it on social media; examples of bad behavior by tourists. Travelpulse Canada recently had a write up on it called Travel Fails: Lessons From 2025's Worst Behaved Travelers so on this week's show Travel Expert Onanta For…Send us Fan Mail We've probably all witnessed it to some degree or at least seen it on social media; examples of bad behavior by tourists. Travelpulse Canada recently had a write up on it called Travel Fails: Lessons From 2025's Worst Behaved Travelers so on this week's show Travel Expert Onanta Forbes will join me to discuss some of those bad behaviors. Then, travel writer Debra Smith will stop by to share her recent visit to Bali and her stay at the Alaya Ubud Resort. Support the showmore
The exceptional actor, author and presenter Rose Ayling-Ellis joins Tanya Rose to share her travel secrets this week.
In this episode, Rose tells us all about her recent solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, why she thinks Bali is overrated and the travel destinations which have inspired her…The exceptional actor, author and presenter Rose Ayling-Ellis joins Tanya Rose to share her travel secrets this week.
In this episode, Rose tells us all about her recent solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, why she thinks Bali is overrated and the travel destinations which have inspired her passion for nature conservation.
Plus, Rose shares her poignant memory seeing manta rays in the Maldives and reveals the restaurant where she had the best pasta dish of her life…
The full transcript of this episode is available here.
Don’t forget to follow @travelsecretsthepodcast and remember, you can watch all of our episodes on YouTube.
Places mentioned:
Malaysia
Phillipines
Bali, Indonesia
Australia
Scotland
South Africa
Torcolo, Verona
Hoppers, London
Sicily, Italy
Hard Rock Hotel, Maldives
The Standard, Maldives
Chapters
00:00 Intro
05:10 Secret 1: Number 1 travel destination everybody should go to
08:48 Secret 2: Most Over or Underrated travel experience
13:12 Secret 3: Most unexpected travel experience
14:58 Secret 4: Best Food & Drink while travelling
What happens when someone gives up security to build a tropical dream on a tiny island, with no job, no plan, and only one light bulb for power?
Martin Vrana is the founder of Lost Paradise, a boutique resort he spent nearly 15 years building from scratch on a small island off Bali’s coast. Born an…What happens when someone gives up security to build a tropical dream on a tiny island, with no job, no plan, and only one light bulb for power?
Martin Vrana is the founder of Lost Paradise, a boutique resort he spent nearly 15 years building from scratch on a small island off Bali’s coast. Born and raised in Scandinavia, Martin left a safe life behind to follow an adventurous dream, one that taught him resilience, determination, and the art of creating a life on his own terms.
In this episode, Martin tells the story of how he turned a blank plot of land into Lost Paradise resort, through three jobs, relentless determination, and years of overcoming logistical, emotional, and cultural challenges.
Martin shares the raw truth behind building Lost Paradise from the ground up: the emotional cost, the logistical nightmares, and the relentless mindset that carried him through. You’ll hear how he navigated burnout, sacrificed relationships, and lived off-grid with no electricity, all while staying anchored to his vision. This story isn’t about overnight success; it’s about what’s possible when you refuse to quit.
What wild dream or goal of your are you ready to make happen? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
Tune In To Learn:
Why he kept the journey secret (even from his own mother)
How sourcing reclaimed wood across Indonesia became an epic logistical feat
What it felt like to work 450 hours a month to fund a project you’re not sure will succeed
How natural disasters and COVID unexpectedly pushed the project forward
The emotional toll of isolation, stress, and living off-grid in a half-built bungalow
How Martin became part of the community, learning language and culture on the ground
Why he calls himself a modern-day adventurer, not a social media entrepreneur
What building Lost Paradise taught him about success, freedom, and fulfillment
How he’s recovering from the journey and what he’s dreaming up next
And so much more
Resources:
Sign up for our FREE newsletter
Lost Paradise Resort
Martin on Instagram
Watch the YouTube documentary
Want More?
100 Documentaries Project: Traveling the Globe to Find Extraordinary Humans + Changing the World One Story at a Time with Robin Danehav
How To Go Sailing Around The World with Brian Trautman
Bicycling Across the USA Without Money in Search of Human Connection With Daniel Troia
Thanks To Our Sponsors:
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In this offbeat episode of The Radio Vagabond, I find myself in beautiful Bali, sipping on what might be the strangest – and most expensive – cup of coffee I've ever had.
It's called Luwak coffee, made from beans that have been eaten, digested, and yes, pooped out by a civet cat. Then it's cleaned,…In this offbeat episode of The Radio Vagabond, I find myself in beautiful Bali, sipping on what might be the strangest – and most expensive – cup of coffee I've ever had.
It's called Luwak coffee, made from beans that have been eaten, digested, and yes, pooped out by a civet cat. Then it's cleaned, roasted, and brewed into a surprisingly smooth cup of coffee. Whether it's a gimmick or a gourmet experience, I had to try it for myself.
Come with me to a Balinese coffee plantation where I sample this legendary brew, chat with locals, and question my own life choices – one sip at a time.
See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/212-bali/
This Flashback Friday episode was first released on November 25, 2021.more
This week on Drop A Pin, The Wonton Don and Uncle Chaps head to INDONESIA — a surfer’s paradise and home to some of the most beautiful (and brutal) waves on Earth. Joining the boys is Grammy-nominated Bluegrass artist Tony Kamel, who shares the insane story of how he broke his leg surfing in Bali.
A…This week on Drop A Pin, The Wonton Don and Uncle Chaps head to INDONESIA — a surfer’s paradise and home to some of the most beautiful (and brutal) waves on Earth. Joining the boys is Grammy-nominated Bluegrass artist Tony Kamel, who shares the insane story of how he broke his leg surfing in Bali.
And on this weeks Gettin' Cultured Mostly Sports couch boy Connor Griffin hops in the middle seat to get some advice as a very novice traveler.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Tony Kamel Interview
01:15:42 - A Word From Out Sponsor
01:16:41 - Gettin Cultured with Connor Griffin
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Bali is so incredible that we couldn’t fit everything into just one episode! In this bonus episode, Tim and David dive into Bali’s culinary scene, best beach clubs, and unforgettable activities. From hidden food gems to world-class surf spots, get ready for the ultimate insider’s g…Episode Overview
Bali is so incredible that we couldn’t fit everything into just one episode! In this bonus episode, Tim and David dive into Bali’s culinary scene, best beach clubs, and unforgettable activities. From hidden food gems to world-class surf spots, get ready for the ultimate insider’s guide to Bali beyond the beaches.
Episode Highlights
🍽️ Must-Try Restaurants in Bali
• Donna – Ubud – A Latin American & Mediterranean fusion spot for when you need a break from rice. Think ceviche, paella, and milanesa in a lush, jungle-inspired setting.
• Ibu Oka – The go-to spot for Bali’s legendary babi guling (roast suckling pig).
• Milk & Madu (Canggu) – A breakfast favorite, known for fresh smoothie bowls and friendly vibes.
• Barbacoa (Canggu) – Argentinian-inspired grill house serving smoky, fire-kissed meats in a rustic setting.
• Motel Mexicola (Seminyak) – A lively Mexican eatery with tacos, tequila, and a retro party atmosphere.
🏖️ The Beach Club Experience
If your hotel isn’t right on the beach, no worries—Bali’s beach clubs have got you covered!
• Sundays Beach Club (Uluwatu) – Ride a glass elevator down a cliff to a stunning private white sand beach with snorkeling, kayaking, bonfires, and amazing cocktails.
• Single Fin Beach Club (Uluwatu) – The ultimate surf hangout with sunset views, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere.
🚀 Things to Do in Bali Beyond the Beach
• Batur Natural Hot Springs – Relax in soothing thermal waters while gazing at an active volcano.
• Nusa Islands – Take a 45-minute boat ride to pristine beaches, world-class diving, and fewer crowds.
• Hiring a Private Driver for the Day – The best way to explore remote temples, hidden waterfalls, and cultural gems without the tourist crowds.
• Uluwatu Temple Fire Dance – A dramatic sunset performance with ancient storytelling and breathtaking ocean views.
• Skip the Monkey Forest 🐵 – Tim shares his traumatic past monkey encounter and why you should watch your pockets at this over-touristed attraction!
Key Takeaways
✅ Bali is a foodie paradise, blending local flavors with international dining.
✅ Beach clubs offer the best of both worlds—secluded getaways with top-tier service.
✅ Avoid the crowds by exploring beyond Bali’s tourist hotspots.
✅ Private drivers are the best way to unlock Bali’s hidden gems.
✅ Watch out for the monkeys (seriously).
Plan Your Trip!
🏨 Top Hotel Picks in Bali:
• Renaissance Bali Uluwatu – Cliffside luxury with breathtaking infinity pools.
• Mandapa Ritz-Carlton Reserve – A jungle escape with private villas & pools.
• Kempinski Bali – The iconic 60m infinity pool that meets the ocean.
🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📷 Instagram: @voyascapemedia
🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
🔔 Subscribe & Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.
🌍 For more travel inspiration, behind-the-scenes podcast content, and exclusive deals, visit Voyascape.com!
Credits:
Hosted by Tim Johnson and David Brodie. Produced by Voyascape Media.
Copyright - Voyascape Media
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Bali—an island paradise with stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and deep spiritual roots. But beneath its beauty lies a bustling tourism hub. In this episode, Tim and David explore the duality of Bali, its breathtaking experiences, and ho…🎙️ Hosted by Tim Johnson & David Brodie
Episode Overview
Bali—an island paradise with stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and deep spiritual roots. But beneath its beauty lies a bustling tourism hub. In this episode, Tim and David explore the duality of Bali, its breathtaking experiences, and how to travel sustainably in one of the world’s most Instagrammed destinations.
Episode Highlights
🔹 Bali’s Dual Identity – A tropical dream or an overtourism hotspot?
🔹 Tim & David’s First Impressions – How Bali has changed over the years.
🔹 Where to Escape the Crowds – Hidden gems and quieter regions like Uluwatu.
🔹 Ubud & Artisanal Culture – A place to connect with traditional crafts.
🔹 Surfing in Bali – Beginner-friendly lessons in Kuta Beach.
🔹 Top Hotel Picks –
• Renaissance Bali Uluwatu: Cliffside luxury with stunning infinity pools 🌅
• Mandapa Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Jungle retreat with private pools 🏡
• Kempinski Bali: Iconic 60m pool blending into the ocean 🏖️
🔹 The Gili Islands Escape – A castaway paradise just a ferry ride away! 🏝️
Key Takeaways
✅ Bali offers a mix of party hotspots, wellness retreats, and secluded getaways.
✅ Uluwatu and Ubud provide more serene experiences than bustling Seminyak or Kuta.
✅ Surfing, cultural immersion, and eco-friendly travel options abound.
✅ The Gili Islands offer a motor-free escape with world-class diving.
Next Up: Bonus Episode on Bali’s Culinary Scene! 🍜
Tim and David return to dive into Bali’s incredible food culture, from beach clubs to warungs!
💬 Join the Conversation!
Have you been to Bali? Share your experiences with us on social media!
🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📷 Instagram: @voyascapemedia
🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
🔔 Subscribe & Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.
🌍 For more travel inspiration, behind-the-scenes podcast content, and exclusive deals, visit Voyascape.com!
Credits:
Hosted by Tim Johnson and David Brodie. Produced by Voyascape Media.
Copyright - Voyascape Media
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
“Influencers are forever reinforcing the same images. They’re spending no time in the actual place, other than the requisite time to take the photo. From the local community’s point of view, these kinds of tourists bring very little value.” –Stuart McDonald
In this episode of Deviate, Rolf and Stuar…“Influencers are forever reinforcing the same images. They’re spending no time in the actual place, other than the requisite time to take the photo. From the local community’s point of view, these kinds of tourists bring very little value.” –Stuart McDonald
In this episode of Deviate, Rolf and Stuart talk about why Stuart chose to make his office in West Bali, and why South Bali has developed something of a bad reputation in terms of over-tourism (2:30); the mythos of Bali, how it became a “dreamscape” in the Western consciousness, and how it has changed in recent years (6:30); why certain areas in Bali become over-touristed, and how it has recently been affected by “influencers” (18:00); how black magic and ghosts are part of the belief systems of Balinese, yet few travelers ascertain this (24:00); and how much social-media travel content leaves out essential cultural context (31:00).
Stuart McDonald (@travelfishery) is the co-founder of Travelfish.org, a travel planning website covering Southeast Asia, which he launched in 2014. He has been traveling in that part of the world since 1993, and living there since 1997.
Notable Links:
The Vagabond’s Way, by Rolf Potts (book)
Bali Hai Immigrant Song (YouTube mashup)
Dutch presence in Bali (colonialist history)
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert (book)
Canggu (coastal village in Bali)
Fly-in fly-out [FIFO] (term for temporary laborers)
Digital nomads (remote workers who travel)
Lonely Planet (travel guidebook publisher)
Infinity pool (type of swimming pool)
National Geographic (geography magazine)
GetYourGuide (tour company)
Gates of Heaven (photogenic temple in Bali)
Balinese sacred textiles (sometimes wrapped on trees)
Kastom (Melanesian traditional culture)
Kava (sedative drink in Melanesia)
Listicle (article structured as a list)
Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture, by Kyle Chayka (book)
Externality (indirect economic cost)
This episode of Deviate is also brought to you by AirTreks, an industry leader in multi-stop international travel. If you’ve ever planned a trip with multiple stops, you know that finding the right flights can be difficult. Between balancing travel logistics and cost, it often becomes impossible to build an itinerary that matches your travel goals. AirTreks is a distributed travel company with employees working from all corners of the world to help with your flight planning, specializing in complex routes with up to 25 stops. The AirTreks website offers suggested pre-planned travel itineraries to help you get started, but can c...more
Social media has turned Bali’s shrines and temples into a playground for disrespectful tourists, but residents are fighting to preserve the island’s integrity.
SHOW NOTES:
Bali Influencer Backlash Intensifies
Eat, Pray, Love Trailer
When a tourist in Bali gets arrested, this is the woman they cal…Social media has turned Bali’s shrines and temples into a playground for disrespectful tourists, but residents are fighting to preserve the island’s integrity.
SHOW NOTES:
Bali Influencer Backlash Intensifies
Eat, Pray, Love Trailer
When a tourist in Bali gets arrested, this is the woman they call
Will the Instagram vs. Reality Trend Affect Tourism in Bali?
Flying business class or first class isn't only for the ultra-wealthy anymore – on the contrary, nowadays, you can quickly get it by using miles and even your earned status! In this episode, Emily talks about her most recent trip to Bali and how much she spent on the best first-class seats in the wo…Flying business class or first class isn't only for the ultra-wealthy anymore – on the contrary, nowadays, you can quickly get it by using miles and even your earned status! In this episode, Emily talks about her most recent trip to Bali and how much she spent on the best first-class seats in the world! On the other hand, Ashley will talk about how you can achieve status and start flying business class as you deserve. Here's what you can expect from this episode: Emily's experience in...more
What does it take to turn a business idea into a multimillion dollar company? How do you travel and run a growing business at the same time? Hear how Kristin Morrison turned a boring dog walking gig into an exciting (and lucrative) business concept. Then, she reveals how she was able to travel to Ba…What does it take to turn a business idea into a multimillion dollar company? How do you travel and run a growing business at the same time? Hear how Kristin Morrison turned a boring dog walking gig into an exciting (and lucrative) business concept. Then, she reveals how she was able to travel to Bali for six months and keep her business thriving from anywhere in the world.
Kristin Morrison is a Business and Life Coach, Podcaster, Speaker, and Author who went from accidental business owner to building one of the largest businesses of its kind in California. Now, she lives part-time on 9 acres in the Hawaiian jungle and part-time in Northern California.
Tune in to hear Kristin's story and discover her tips and advice on staying productive, pricing your services, working less, overcoming burnout, and taking your business to the next level.
Special Offers:
• Buy a copy of Digital Nomads For Dummies
• Going overseas in 2024? Apply for relocation support
• Subscribe to Kristin's weekly e-mail list
Topics Discussed:
• Kristin's journey from pet sitter to business owner.
• The learning curve of owning a business.
• What to do when you're anxious and unsure about what you want to do for work.
• How to transform your business to the next level.
• Advice for freelancers and time-based business owners on charging the right prices.
• What to do when you're struggling with burnout in your business.
• 3 steps to successful delegation.
• How to travel after starting a business.
• Productivity/inspiration tips for digital nomads.
• How Kristin's life transformed after she started traveling.
• The powerful benefits of solo travel.
• Selling your business and transitioning to a new role.
Questions Answered:
• What is the #1 change your pet sitting clients made to thrive as a business?
• How did you go from working 7 days a week to 3 days a week in just one year?
• When during your entrepreneurial journey did you decide to start traveling?
• Is my business too big to travel?
• How did Bali change your life?
• Why did you sell your business and shift into a coaching role?
• and more!
Episode Resources:
Related Videos:
• How To Become a Digital Nomad: The Top 5 Ways
• How to Create Passive Income & a Location Independent Business - Digital Nomad Interview Matt Bowles
• How to Build an Online Business as a Single Mom w/No Experience with Freya Casey
• BALI DIGITAL NOMADS: Are They Destroying Bali?
Related Podcasts:
• Ep 48: From Virtual Assistant to Founding the Biggest Online Digital Nomad Community in the World
• Ep 180: Making $378K per Year as a Fiverr Freelancer With Alex Fasulo
• Ep 190: How To Find or Become a Virtual Assistant in 2023
• Ep 215: The Easy Way to Live a Better Life
• Ep 223: Slow Travel Tips from Nora Dunn, The Professional Hobo
Books/Articles Mentioned:
• Six-Figure Pet Sitting by Kristin Morrison
• The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
Business Management Resources:
• Hire a Virtual Assistant: OnlineJobs.ph, Fiverr, Upwork, GetMagic, ChatterBoss
Connect with Kristin Morrison:
• Visit her website
• Learn more about The Six-Figure Pet Sitting Business Academy
• Follow her on Instagram
• Connect on LinkedIn
• Connect on Facebook
• Listen to Business Pathfinder Podcast
• Listen to Prosperous Pet Business Podcast
Connect with Kristin and Support the Show:
* Become a Patron
* Buy a Coffee
* Follow on Instagram
* Join the Facebook Group
* Leave a 5-Star Review
* Subscribe on YouTube
See the show notes pages on BadassDigitalNomads.com or TravelingwithKristin.com/podcast for time stamps, transcripts, and more resources from this episode.more
Cal Amir was living the "American Dream" on Wall St.. but it left him empty inside. He took a year off to travel, and 30 countries later, he never went back to his old life. He now splits his time between NY, LA, and Bali.
Want to win a free $100 gift card from Unbound Merino? 🤩 Here's how to enter: 1) Leave a 5-star review for Badass Digital Nomads this week 2) Take a screenshot, 3) Email it to [email protected] with the Subject Line: Podcast Review. (Contest closes on May 2 at 12am GMT.) You can leave a…Want to win a free $100 gift card from Unbound Merino? 🤩 Here's how to enter: 1) Leave a 5-star review for Badass Digital Nomads this week 2) Take a screenshot, 3) Email it to [email protected] with the Subject Line: Podcast Review. (Contest closes on May 2 at 12am GMT.) You can leave a review on any platform, on our website, or at https://lovethepodcast.com/digitalnomad. Good luck!
Kristin comes to you live from Manchester in the United Kingdom after a rocky start to the trip. She shares what to look for when renting a property abroad (to avoid similar problems), then reflects on last week's viral video about a digital nomad's controversial feature in Business Insider about why Bali's "not worth" living in anymore.
After listening to the podcast, you can watch the original video here and make sure to comment to join the conversation!
Special Offers:
• Leave a podcast review and enter to win a $100 from Unbound Merino wool clothing.
• Apply for Kristin's Ready to Relocate program
• Buy Digital Nomads For Dummies
• Get a Solis WiFi Hotspot for international travel.
Resources Mentioned:
• Bali Controversy Video
• Business Insider Bali Feature: "Why Digital Nomads Should Stop Living in Bali"
• The Last Tourist Documentary
• Brokedown Palace Movie
• Locked Up Abroad TV Show
Connect with Kristin and Support the Show:
* Become a Patron
* Buy a Coffee
* Follow on Instagram
* Join the Facebook Group
* Leave a 5-Star Review
* Subscribe on YouTube
Thank you to love over everything for the review last week!
Inspired to start my journey ❤️
Found this podcast yesterday and have already listened to many episodes! I'm feeling super inspired to create my new reality ✈️
See the show notes pages on BadassDigitalNomads.com or TravelingwithKristin.com/podcast for time stamps, transcripts, and more resources from this episode.more
