Magical Prague at Sunrise, My Cringe Oktoberfest Stories and Travel Fitness
In this week’s episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m taking you through three very different parts of my travel life — the peaceful beauty of Prague at sunrise, the chaotic hilarity of my cringe Oktoberfest stories, and…Magical Prague at Sunrise, My Cringe Oktoberfest Stories and Travel Fitness
In this week’s episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I’m taking you through three very different parts of my travel life — the peaceful beauty of Prague at sunrise, the chaotic hilarity of my cringe Oktoberfest stories, and my personal reflections on something I call “travel fitness.”
I start with my recent trip to Prague, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. After a sleepless overnight flight from Vancouver, I landed just in time to experience something truly magical — the city waking up at dawn. With the sun rising over the Vltava River and not a tourist in sight, I wandered across the Charles Bridge, through the Old Town Square, and soaked in that golden early-morning glow that made the whole city feel timeless. It reminded me why I travel — those quiet, unplanned moments that make everything worth it.
Then we move into a very different kind of travel experience — my cringe and hilarious Oktoberfest stories. I went to Oktoberfest for the first time back in 2014 at the end of my two-year backpacking trip, and to say it was messy would be an understatement. From falling off benches to accidentally soaking locals in beer, to somehow ending up cleaning my own disaster in a tent washroom — it was pure chaos. I also share what it was like to go back this year to meet some fellow travel creators, Chris and Sarah and Matt and Nat, and to see the festival from a slightly older (and more sober!) perspective. It’s a funny look back at my early travel days — the mistakes, the laughs, and the stories that stick with you forever.
Finally, I wrap up with a reflection on something I’ve been thinking about lately — travel fitness. It’s not just about being physically fit; it’s about having the energy, curiosity, and adaptability to keep exploring day after day. After walking nearly 27,000 steps in Prague, I realised just how much “travel stamina” it takes to be on the move — from early mornings, long days, and constant new experiences. I share a few honest thoughts on how I try to keep that balance and stay ready for whatever comes next on the road.
This episode is a mix of reflection, chaos, laughter, and travel insight — everything I love about sharing stories on this podcast. Whether you’re planning your next adventure, reminiscing about your own travel fails, or just dreaming of that next sunrise in a new city, I hope this episode inspires you to get out there and keep exploring.
⏰ Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Intro and what’s coming up in this episode
01:10 – Why Prague blew me away at sunrise
03:20 – First impressions of the city and staying on a boat hotel
05:30 – Walking Prague’s empty streets and Charles Bridge at dawn
08:00 – Meeting a fellow traveler and reflecting on Prague’s vibe
10:30 – Travel tips: seeing Prague before the crowds
11:00 – Heading to Oktoberfest and meeting YouTube travel creators
12:45 – Throwback to my first Oktoberfest in 2014
15:00 – The infamous “bench collapse” story
17:30 – Falling asleep at a Bayern Munich game
19:40 – My worst Oktoberfest hangover ever
21:30 – Revisiting Oktoberfest as an older, wiser traveler
22:30 – What I’ve learned from embarrassing travel moments
23:00 – Introducing “travel fitness” — my personal theory
24:30 – Why travel stamina matters on long trips
25:20 – Tips for building your travel fitness before your next adventure
26:00 – Upcoming podcast news and future travel plans
🔗 Links Mentioned
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🧳 Book Lucie's free walking tour on your next visit to Prague - https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/36530-welcome-to-prague-old-town-jewish-quarter-and-charles-bridge
We’re celebrating the start of summer with refreshing beers from Munich and Berlin in Germany as well as Santa Fe, New Mexico and Asheville, North Carolina. Brent samples suds from beer halls in Munich and craft beer brewers in Asheville. Plus spicy tacos with local beer, tropical IPA, an ale trail,…We’re celebrating the start of summer with refreshing beers from Munich and Berlin in Germany as well as Santa Fe, New Mexico and Asheville, North Carolina. Brent samples suds from beer halls in Munich and craft beer brewers in Asheville. Plus spicy tacos with local beer, tropical IPA, an ale trail, and much more! [Ep 340]
Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they discuss Ryan's recent river cruise experience on AmaWaterways' Romantic Danube itinerary. In this episode, Ryan shares the first part of his journey, including his pre-cruise adventures in Munich, Germany, and his initial experiences aboard the ship. Episo…Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they discuss Ryan's recent river cruise experience on AmaWaterways' Romantic Danube itinerary. In this episode, Ryan shares the first part of his journey, including his pre-cruise adventures in Munich, Germany, and his initial experiences aboard the ship. Episode Highlights: Ryan participated in AmaWaterways' "Seminar on the River" program, combining a typical river cruise experience with special training sessions for travel advisorsThe cruise sailed fr...more
Munich, the heart of Bavaria, is a city steeped in tradition and rich with culture. Tim and David delve into the magic of Munich, highlighting its famous Christmas markets and the festive spirit that envelops the city during the winter season. David recounts his recent trip to Munich with his daught…Munich, the heart of Bavaria, is a city steeped in tradition and rich with culture. Tim and David delve into the magic of Munich, highlighting its famous Christmas markets and the festive spirit that envelops the city during the winter season. David recounts his recent trip to Munich with his daughter, sharing their whirlwind experience of visiting iconic spots like Marienplatz, the city's main square where the vibrant Christmas market is held. They immersed themselves in the festive atmosphere, sampling delicious German delicacies and exploring the Munich Residence, the former royal palace that offers a stunning backdrop for seasonal festivities. The hosts emphasize that even a brief twelve hours in Munich can yield unforgettable memories, thanks to its efficient transport system that connects visitors to the heart of the city without hassle.
As the conversation unfolds, Tim and David discuss the allure of Munich beyond its Christmas charm. They reflect on the city's year-round attractions, including the expansive English Garden, a green oasis perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Tim paints a vivid picture of the garden's unique river surfing scene, where locals embrace the summer sun and the cool waters of the Isar, demonstrating a lifestyle that harmonizes nature and urban living. The hosts also touch upon the cultural significance of Bavaria, noting how it shapes the German identity and attracts visitors eager to experience authentic traditions, from hearty cuisine to lively music.
Throughout their dialogue, Tim and David offer invaluable tips for travelers, from must-visit restaurants to hidden gems. They recommend indulging in local culinary delights at the various Christmas market stalls and iconic beer halls, where the atmosphere is as integral to the experience as the food itself. Their shared enthusiasm for Munich is infectious, making it clear that the city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored, whether during the festive season or throughout the year.
Takeaways:
• Munich is home to the original Oktoberfest and some of the world’s best Christmas markets, offering a unique cultural experience.
• The Munich Christmas market is considered one of the oldest in the world, attracting visitors with its festive atmosphere and delicious food.
• Exploring Munich can be done efficiently in just 12 hours, especially if you prioritize the main attractions like Marienplatz.
• The English Garden in Munich is larger than Central Park, featuring beautiful paths, lakes, and unique activities like river surfing.
• David and his daughter enjoyed sampling various Christmas delicacies at Munich's famous Christmas markets during their brief visit.
• The experience of drinking beer in Munich's historic beer halls captures the essence of Bavarian culture, making it a must-try for visitors.
• Tim recommends two great hotels, the Kempinski Hotel Vier Jahreszeitenhotel and the Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor - a concept by Hyatt.
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Credits:
Hosted by Tim Johnson and David Brodie. Produced by Voyascape Media.
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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:
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Tune in for the inside scoop on Oktoberfest, Munich’s beloved standing wave and plenty of beer recommendations. Prost!
Rachel recommends:
Obermühle (in Garmisch-Partenkirchen): https://hotel-obermuehle.de/en/
Das Kranzbach (close to Garmisch-Partenkirchen): https://www.daskranzbach.de/en/
