Thirty-two thousand people. Forty miles. Five boroughs. One bridge that will test everything you have left in your legs. Crystal and Joe did the NYC Five Borough Bike Ride together -- Joe with his family, Crystal flying solo from DC with her own bike strapped to the back of her car -- and came back …Thirty-two thousand people. Forty miles. Five boroughs. One bridge that will test everything you have left in your legs. Crystal and Joe did the NYC Five Borough Bike Ride together -- Joe with his family, Crystal flying solo from DC with her own bike strapped to the back of her car -- and came back with everything the official website doesn't tell you. From booking bikes six months out to finding a $419 hotel the week before, this episode covers the real planning, the real costs, and the moments that made it worth every penny...including some of the tourist attractions they visited and restaurants they sampled.
What You'll Walk Away With
• Why you need to book your rental bike the moment registration opens -- and what happens if you wait too long
• The hotel pricing reality: what Joe paid booking five weeks out versus what Crystal paid booking one week before -- and the $115 Sunday night plot twist
• Why taxis in New York City are now consistently cheaper than Uber and Lyft -- and by how much
• The packet pickup experience: what to expect, what to buy, and the one vendor booth Crystal walked past and deeply regretted
• What 40 miles through New York actually looks like -- from Central Park's downhills to the DJ hauling a full sound system on his bike to the church choir cheering you on
• The pit stop party system that breaks the ride into manageable chunks -- and why Oreo cookies become a religious experience at mile 27
• The honest Verrazzano Bridge report: what it looks like, what it does to your legs, and why everyone who finishes says the same word when they hear its name
• Two restaurant discoveries worth building a whole New York trip around -- including a Michelin inspector favorite that doesn't take reservations and almost gave their table away
• The gear that saved Crystal's ride -- and the booth she skipped that she wishes she hadn't
• Why this ride lets you see more of New York in one day than most people see in five visits Why This Episode Is Worth Your Time
The NYC Five Borough Bike Ride happens once a year and sells out fast. If it's on your list -- or you've never considered it -- this is the most practical hour of planning you'll find anywhere. Crystal and Joe didn't have a perfect plan. They had a great trip anyway, and the difference between the two is exactly what this episode is about.
Adventure Highlights
Crystal drove from DC with her own bike. Joe flew in with family for a long weekend that included the Tenement Museum, the 9/11 Memorial, a Yankees game, The Edge observation deck, and two of the best meals New York City quietly keeps to itself. They ended up in the same wave on race day without planning it -- and the Verrazzano Bridge united them in suffering.
Resources and Places Mentioned
• NYC Five Borough Bike Ride -- bikenewyork.org; registration opens annually, sells out quickly
• Unlimited Biking and BikeNYC -- rental options; book as early as possible, expect $150+ for 24 hours
• Hotel Indigo Financial District -- Crystal's last-minute find; $419 Saturday, $115 Sunday
• DoubleTree Battery Park -- Joe's hotel; booked five weeks out at ~$130/night average
• Lindens at the Boro Hotel -- Saturday night dinner; standout cocktails and burger
• Emilio's Ballato -- Sunday celebration dinner; no reservations, Michelin inspector favorite, arrive early
• John's Pizzeria on Bleecker Street -- Joe's recommendation for New York pizza at its best
• The Edge at Hudson Yards -- observation deck, $45/person, glass floor included
• Serendipity 3 -- Times Square dessert stop; $1,000 gold ice cream available with one month's notice
• Tom Schwab's chamois cream -- Crystal's ride-saving gear recommendation
• Too Good To Go app -- mentioned for finding discounted food options around the city
• Stacking Adventures Clubhouse -- join on Facebook for trip photos, videos, and community
• Share Your Adventure -- stackingadventures.com/mystory; win the Emerald backpack by guessing where Crystal is in Japanmore
Quitting your job to travel the world sounds unrealistic… maybe even irresponsible. But what if it’s actually one of the most intentional financial decisions you can make?
Kesi Irvin walked away from a high-powered finance career in New York City after saving for two years to fund her dream of trav…Quitting your job to travel the world sounds unrealistic… maybe even irresponsible. But what if it’s actually one of the most intentional financial decisions you can make?
Kesi Irvin walked away from a high-powered finance career in New York City after saving for two years to fund her dream of traveling the world.
What started as a round-the-world trip turned into more than a decade of long-term travel across 84 countries and completely reimagined her way of living, working, and earning.
We break down what it really takes to plan a round-the-world trip, including how much money you actually need, how to build a travel fund, and how to make money while traveling once your savings run out.
If you’ve ever wondered whether long-term travel is financially possible, this episode will show you how to start designing your own path.
Read blog post 'How To Plan a Round the World Trip Step by Step': https://thoughtcard.com/plan-round-the-world-trip/
Connect with Kesi Irvin
Website: https://www.kesitoandfro.com/
Follow on Instagram: @kesitoandfro (Link: https://www.instagram.com/kesitoandfro)
Other Episodes You’ll Love
• How To Plan an Adult Gap Year with Stephanie Perry - Episode 49
• Is Budget Travel Still Possible? What You Need to Know To Travel on $75 a Day - Episode 195
Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
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Support the Show Directly:
Leave a review in your podcast app - it helps other listeners discover the show. Share this episode with family and friends who want to travel around the world for a year or long-term.
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 Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
What does it actually take to travel well with a partner, and what are the hidden layers of that experience when you're also navigating the world as a queer couple?
Gabi and Shanna Meit-Sciara are a Brooklyn-based couple and the creators of 27 Travels, a platform launched in 2016 to document their…What does it actually take to travel well with a partner, and what are the hidden layers of that experience when you're also navigating the world as a queer couple?
Gabi and Shanna Meit-Sciara are a Brooklyn-based couple and the creators of 27 Travels, a platform launched in 2016 to document their adventures while building more visibility and resources for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Gabi is a photographer and graphic designer; Shanna is a videographer and video editor. Together, they've visited 40+ countries and built a full-time creative business rooted in their relationship and their shared love of the world.
In this episode, co-host Dianni Hall sits down with Gabi and Shanna to talk about what it really looks like to build a relationship through travel, how their partnership has been tested and strengthened on the road over ten years, and what the experience of traveling as a queer couple actually involves beyond what most people see.
This conversation is for anyone who's ever taken a trip with someone they care about and had to figure each other out in real time. Gabi and Shanna get specific about the roles they've each naturally fallen into, how they handle conflict during work trips without letting it ruin the experience, and the invisible, exhausting decisions queer couples make constantly on the road that most people never think about. If you've been wondering what traveling as a couple actually looks like when applied to a real, long-term relationship, this one goes deep.
What's a trip that revealed something unexpected about someone you were traveling with? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you'll share by sending me an audio message.
Co-host Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, freelancer, and host of the While She’s Away podcast, where she interviews women on their travel experience and expertise to help women live their best lives exploring the world. Learn more about her work here.
Tune In To Learn:
Why matching travel styles is one of the most meaningful early tests of a relationship, and how Gabi and Shanna discovered theirs on their first big trip to Arizona
How the roles partners naturally fall into on the road tend to emerge without anyone actually choosing them
Why adding content creation to a relationship and a trip is its own challenge, and what Gabi and Shanna have learned about navigating creative disagreements
What to actually pay attention to on a first trip with a partner, including the green flags most people overlook
How queer couples are constantly making decisions that straight couples rarely have to think about, from safety research to coming out to a stranger in a taxi
What the invisible labor of queer travel looks like in everyday moments: hotel check-ins, ride-shares, tour sign-ups
Why a loose itinerary almost always beats a rigid one, and why missing something can actually be the best thing that happens
New York City hidden gems from two lifelong locals: the case for Brooklyn, vegan food in Chinatown, and more
And so much more
Resources:
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LGBTQ+ Travel and Making A Difference with Ravi Roth
Top 7 Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers and Finding Your People Around the World with LGBTQ+ Travel Expert Alicia Valenski
Choose Travel NOW! Lessons from the World’s Longest Honeymoon with National Geographic Authors Mike and Anne Howard of HoneyTrek
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Looking for the best NYC photo spots for your next trip?
➡️ Book a NYC Photo Journeys tour and use the promo code ‘SAVVY10’ to get $10 off any photo tour or photoshoot.
New York City moves fast and it’s easy to spend your trip running from Times Square to Central Park, checking off landmarks witho…Looking for the best NYC photo spots for your next trip?
➡️ Book a NYC Photo Journeys tour and use the promo code ‘SAVVY10’ to get $10 off any photo tour or photoshoot.
New York City moves fast and it’s easy to spend your trip running from Times Square to Central Park, checking off landmarks without truly taking it in.
I’m joined by Jessie Festa, founder of NYC Photo Journeys, to share the best photo locations in NYC, including underrated spots most travelers miss.
Jessie combines licensed NYC sightseeing tours with professional photography sessions, creating a 2-in-1 experience that helps you explore the city while capturing high-quality images you’ll actually want to frame.
We cover:
• The best NYC photography spots beyond the typical tourist landmarks
• Underrated neighborhoods and hidden gems you may not know about
• Common mistakes travelers make when DIY-planning a trip to New York City
• Why slowing down completely transforms your NYC experience
Whether you’re visiting New York City for the first time or you think you’ve already “seen it all,” this episode will help you discover hidden gems and take in the best views of New York City.
Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/nyc-photo-spots/
➡️ Book a NYC Photo Journeys tour and use the promo code ‘SAVVY10’ to get $10 off any photo tour or photoshoot.
Follow on Instagram: @nycphototour (Link: https://www.instagram.com/nycphototour/)
Other Episodes You’ll Love
• She Shapes History NYC Walking Tour: Celebrating the Women Who Built NYC - Episode 216
• Best Things To Do in Downtown Manhattan (blog)
• Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit New York City - Episode 186
• Affordable Vacation Spots in the U.S. - Episode 172
Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett
Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Resources & Recommendations:
➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank
➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn cash back on purchases
➡️ Earn points by snapping photos of receipts with Fetch
Support the Show Directly:
• Leave a review in your podcast app—it helps other listeners discover the show
• Share this episode with family and friends who love travel and history
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 Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
We’re taking you on a weekend trip to New York City! In this episode we explore Manhattan’s top attractions, give you a taste of some of the best things to eat in NYC, take you to one of the most beautiful bars in New York, recommend a few great places to stay in NYC for a splurge or a save, and tip…We’re taking you on a weekend trip to New York City! In this episode we explore Manhattan’s top attractions, give you a taste of some of the best things to eat in NYC, take you to one of the most beautiful bars in New York, recommend a few great places to stay in NYC for a splurge or a save, and tips for navigating the subway.
You can take this exact trip by downloading and following our 2-day NYC Itinerary!
NYC in Winter Episode Highlights:
• Using CITYPASS to see Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the NYC City Cruise
• Time Square
• 9/11 Memorial Reflection Pools
• Drinks at the gorgeous Ten11 bar
• Where to eat in NYC: Emily’s, Bubby’s, L’industrie, Mamas Too, Los Tacos No 1, Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, The Best SichuanCheck out our curated list of NYC Activities & Tours for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Hotels in NYC we stayed in and recommend:
• IHG Barclays in midtown Manhattan - This is a Chase The Edit hotel
• Courtyard by Marriott Long Island City
• If those are booked up you can look into these other great hotels in NYC on TripAdvisor.NYC Winter Packing List: Base layers, heated jacket, beanie, rechargeable hand warmers, & travel size umbrella
—---------------------------------------
Shop: Trip Itineraries & Amazon Storefront
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.
Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!more
Doug Parker interviews Madison about her seven-night family cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's new Prima-plus class ship, Norwegian Aqua, sailing from New York City to Bermuda.
Madison shares detailed insights on embarkation logistics, stateroom comfort, the different dining experiences, onboard ent…Doug Parker interviews Madison about her seven-night family cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's new Prima-plus class ship, Norwegian Aqua, sailing from New York City to Bermuda.
Madison shares detailed insights on embarkation logistics, stateroom comfort, the different dining experiences, onboard entertainment, and memorable Bermuda excursions.
She offers practical tips for booking shows, specialty dining, and shore activities, highlighting the ship's spacious design and the value of planning ahead.
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Throughout history, women played a powerful role in shaping the city we know today.
I’m joined by Beth Santos and Nikki Padilla Rivera, passionate storytellers from She Shapes History NYC, who are leading walking tours exploring the hidden stories of women who challenged power, rewrote laws, organi…Throughout history, women played a powerful role in shaping the city we know today.
I’m joined by Beth Santos and Nikki Padilla Rivera, passionate storytellers from She Shapes History NYC, who are leading walking tours exploring the hidden stories of women who challenged power, rewrote laws, organized communities, and built lasting change across New York City.
Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/she-shapes-history-nyc-tours/
We also talk about what makes this guided New York City walking tour different from others, the types of travelers and locals who will love this experience, and what participants can expect to walk away with.
If you love meaningful travel experiences, cultural storytelling, and discovering the untold stories behind famous places, this episode is for you.
➡️ Book a She Shapes History guided walking tour using the promo code ‘TTC100’ to get (2) tickets for $100. (Link: https://thoughtcard.com/she-shapes-history)
Connect with She Shapes History NYC
Website: https://sheshapeshistory.com/new-york
Follow on Instagram: sheshapeshistorynyc (Link: https://www.instagram.com/sheshapeshistorynyc)
Other Episodes You’ll Love
• Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit New York City - Episode 186
• Affordable Vacation Spots in the U.S. - Episode 172
• How To Achieve Your Travel Goals Step-by-Step - Episode 182
Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Resources & Recommendations:
➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank
➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn cash back on purchases
➡️ Earn points by snapping photos of receipts with Fetch
Support the Show Directly:
• Leave a review in your podcast app—it helps other listeners discover the show
• Share this episode with family and friends who love travel and history
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 Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
In this Cruise Radio episode, Doug interviews Rick about his recent transatlantic voyage on Cunard's Queen Mary 2, sailing from Southampton to New York.
Rick shares highlights including pre-cruise adventures in London and Paris, smooth embarkation, stateroom selection, dining experiences, and uniqu…In this Cruise Radio episode, Doug interviews Rick about his recent transatlantic voyage on Cunard's Queen Mary 2, sailing from Southampton to New York.
Rick shares highlights including pre-cruise adventures in London and Paris, smooth embarkation, stateroom selection, dining experiences, and unique onboard amenities like lectures, a planetarium, and a vast library.
He describes witnessing whales, enjoying the ship's stability in rough seas, and the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
Rick offers practical tips for first-timers and dispels myths about formality, ultimately recommending the Queen Mary 2 crossing as "a memorable, classic travel experience."
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Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues.
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New York City is one of those places that never gets old! On a recent girls trip with my daughters, sisters, and nieces, we decided to skip many of the classic first-time attractions and instead explore parts of the city we don't usually make time for. If you've already checked the big NYC highlight…New York City is one of those places that never gets old! On a recent girls trip with my daughters, sisters, and nieces, we decided to skip many of the classic first-time attractions and instead explore parts of the city we don't usually make time for. If you've already checked the big NYC highlights off your list and are craving fresh ideas, this episode is for you.more
Pauline Frommer discussed her newly released guidebook "Frommer's New York City 2026" and what the top culinary trends in the city are right now. She also talked about what it's like to visit NYC's newest observation deck, and how The Studio Museum, Sotheby's and The Jewish Museum have reinvented th…Pauline Frommer discussed her newly released guidebook "Frommer's New York City 2026" and what the top culinary trends in the city are right now. She also talked about what it's like to visit NYC's newest observation deck, and how The Studio Museum, Sotheby's and The Jewish Museum have reinvented themselves. Then Kevin Long, CEO of TheDyrt.com, talked about how many new campers there were in 2025, what people can do when there's no room at the campsite, and how this form of vacation is evolving.
Takeaways:
• The latest edition of Frommer's New York City guidebook was released this fall, highlighting recent changes and attractions in the city.
• New York City has exciting new attractions and revamped iconic sites.
• The introduction of a new observation deck in Times Square offers unique nighttime views.
• A number of new high-end Caribbean restaurants and innovative wine bars are reshaping the city's culinary scene.
• .Over half of campers had difficulty finding room at their first choice campgrounds in 2025
Companies, products and websites mentioned in this episode:
• Frommer's New York City 2026
• Frommers.com
• Swarovski Crystal
• One Times Square
• The Jewish Museum
• The Studio Museum of Harlem
• Sotheby's
• The Dyrt
• Toyota Trucks
• Ha's Snack Bar
• Sunn's Wine Bar
• Kabawa
• Lei Wine Bar (this is the name of the restaurant Pauline couldn't remember)
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
A review of Carnival Venezia on a nine-night Caribbean cruise from New York City. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. TripInsurance.com president Dan Skilken answers some listener question.
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Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.
Third-party trav…A review of Carnival Venezia on a nine-night Caribbean cruise from New York City. Staff writer Richard Simms has cruise news. TripInsurance.com president Dan Skilken answers some listener question.
Sponsor
Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.
Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues.
Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com.
🎄Planning a holiday trip to New York City? NYC Christmas markets are one of the most magical ways to experience the holiday season, but they can also be crowded and overwhelming if you don't know what to expect.
I'm sharing our best NYC Christmas market tips to help you shop smarter and make the mo…🎄Planning a holiday trip to New York City? NYC Christmas markets are one of the most magical ways to experience the holiday season, but they can also be crowded and overwhelming if you don't know what to expect.
I'm sharing our best NYC Christmas market tips to help you shop smarter and make the most of your time.
Read 'NYC Christmas Markets' blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/christmas-markets-nyc/
🎒Shop Rachel Bloom Anti-Theft Bags
• Crossbody Bag
• Smart Mini (I have this one!!!)
• Smart Crossover
Other Episodes You'll Love
• How To Outsmart Theives While Traveling with Rachel Bloom - Episode 194
• Christmas in NYC with a Baby: Festive Things To Do - Episode 116
• How To Achieve Your Travel Goals - Episode 182
Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
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 Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
This week, we're honored to welcome Sarah Safeer, a product manager in digital consulting based in New York City who has learned early on to prioritize experiences over things. Despite living in one of the busiest cities in the world, Sarah understands the grounding impact of nature and adventure, h…This week, we're honored to welcome Sarah Safeer, a product manager in digital consulting based in New York City who has learned early on to prioritize experiences over things. Despite living in one of the busiest cities in the world, Sarah understands the grounding impact of nature and adventure, having traveled to 54 countries and counting while building an inspiring work-hard, play-hard lifestyle.
Sarah takes us on a journey through her transformation from a shy child to a confident solo traveler and adventurer. She describes that pivotal moment during her study abroad experience in Florence, Italy, when she caught the travel bug and realized how much she wanted to prioritize new experiences and exploration in her life. That initial semester sparked what would become a lifelong mission to blend hard work with meaningful adventure.
In this episode, we explore Sarah's solo adventure on the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia—a five-day, four-night hut-to-hut hiking experience that she undertook as a 25th birthday celebration to herself. Join us for an inspiring conversation about solo female travel, finding balance between city life and mountain adventures, the empowering nature of traveling alone, and how Sarah has crafted a life that seamlessly blends ambition with exploration.more
In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I return to New York City – a place I've visited many times before. But this time, something felt different.
From the moment I stepped back into the chaos, culture, and charisma of "The Big Apple," I was reminded of just how alive this city is…In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I return to New York City – a place I've visited many times before. But this time, something felt different.
From the moment I stepped back into the chaos, culture, and charisma of "The Big Apple," I was reminded of just how alive this city is. They say it's the greatest city in the world – and in this episode, I set out to rediscover exactly why.
Join me for a fresh take on a familiar place, where even for a seasoned traveler like me, New York still knows how to surprise.
See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/100-new-york/
This Flashback Friday episode was first released on February 27, 2020.more
A review of the second cruise on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. This was a five-night Bermuda cruise from New York City.
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Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.
Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, dela…A review of the second cruise on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. This was a five-night Bermuda cruise from New York City.
Sponsor
Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.
Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues.
Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com.
When 16-year-old Jayla Nicholas from New York City packed her one carry-on suitcase for Guatemala, she thought she had everything figured out. A seasoned city kid who loves the smell of airports and dreams of seeing the world, Jayla was ready for her second international trip, an adventure through A…When 16-year-old Jayla Nicholas from New York City packed her one carry-on suitcase for Guatemala, she thought she had everything figured out. A seasoned city kid who loves the smell of airports and dreams of seeing the world, Jayla was ready for her second international trip, an adventure through Afar's Learning Afar program with Global Leadership Adventures.
But Guatemala had lessons she never expected—from the vibrant yellow and purple buildings that felt "more real" than NYC's concrete jungle, to zip-lining through mountain canyons in a sudden downpour, to discovering that "pack light" advice might be the biggest travel myth of all.
In this episode, we follow Jayla's journey from pre-trip excitement to post-adventure wisdom, as she learns about leadership, gratitude, and what it really means to be prepared for the unexpected.
Don't miss these unforgettable moments:
Why Jayla loves the smell of airports and considers flying a gift
The colorful contrast between Guatemala's vibrant buildings and NYC's concrete jungle
Working with elementary school kids who copied her every move (including snack time)
An epic zip-lining adventure that turned into a rain-soaked truck ride sing-along
The tamale that challenged her Chipotle-loving palate
How flushing toilet paper became a luxury she'd never considered
The floating egg chair moment overlooking volcanoes that perfectly captured her gratitude
Why she's officially converting from underpacker to overpacker (and her advice for fellow picky eaters)
Resources
Learn more about Learning Afar and how to support future student travelers
Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our other podcasts, Unpacked, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week, and View From Afar, where we spotlight the people and the ideas shaping the future of travel.
Travel Tales by Afar is part of Airwave Media's podcast network. Please contact [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
To celebrate the 4th of July, Brent is in New York for the diverse and delicious dishes offered there. From the spicy food of Little Sri Lanka to the food carts of Queens as well as Polish bars in Brooklyn and memorable Italian meals in the city, we’re trying them all. Plus, there’s Tibetan, Colombi…To celebrate the 4th of July, Brent is in New York for the diverse and delicious dishes offered there. From the spicy food of Little Sri Lanka to the food carts of Queens as well as Polish bars in Brooklyn and memorable Italian meals in the city, we’re trying them all. Plus, there’s Tibetan, Colombian, Indian, and Mexican food, too! [Ep 344]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides at Buy Me a Coffee
A review of Norwegian Getaway from New York City to Bermuda in 2025. Plus staff writer Richard Simms has this week's cruise news.
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Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.
Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical c…A review of Norwegian Getaway from New York City to Bermuda in 2025. Plus staff writer Richard Simms has this week's cruise news.
Sponsor
Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise.
Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues.
Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com.
What’s it like to trade the hustle of NYC for a slower life in Iceland? And how do you explore its volcanic landscapes without getting stuck in the tourist crowds?
Jewells Chambers is the creator and voice behind All Things Iceland, a podcast and YouTube channel that helps people experience Icelan…What’s it like to trade the hustle of NYC for a slower life in Iceland? And how do you explore its volcanic landscapes without getting stuck in the tourist crowds?
Jewells Chambers is the creator and voice behind All Things Iceland, a podcast and YouTube channel that helps people experience Iceland beyond the tourist trail. Originally from New York City, Jewells moved to Iceland in 2016 after falling in love with an Icelander and has since carved out a meaningful life abroad, blending creativity, digital marketing, travel planning, and a deep respect for Icelandic culture.
In this episode, we talk about what it’s really like to move to Iceland, how Jewells found her way into content creation, and her top recommendations for discovering Iceland's lesser-known destinations and experiences.
If you’ve ever considered moving abroad, reinventing your career, or exploring Iceland beyond the usual tourist stops, Jewells’ story offers both inspiration and practical insights. We chat about embracing discomfort, building a new identity in a foreign land, and how creativity and authenticity have shaped her journey. She also shares a curated list of hidden gems in Iceland—from geothermal wonders to ghost towns—and offers practical advice on navigating Iceland's wild weather and unpredictable terrain. Whether you're planning your first trip or your fifth, you'll leave this episode with a fresh perspective and a bunch of new places to add to your Iceland itinerary.
If you could slow down and live like a local somewhere (even for a little while), where would you go? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
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Tune In To Learn:
Why Jewells moved to Iceland and how love and logistics played equal roles
What it was like adjusting from NYC hustle culture to Iceland’s work-life mindset
How moving to Iceland changed how she views her home country
How she carved out a creative niche in a foreign country without a plan
What most travelers miss when visiting Iceland and why the highlands are so underrated
How the Icelandic mindset of “þetta reddast” (it will all work out) reshaped her life
How a rainy, rough hike turned her into an outdoor enthusiast
Advice for dealing with Iceland’s intense weather and road conditions
Where to find hidden hot springs, ghost towns, and fjords with almost no crowds
Pro tips for driving in Iceland’s highlands (and why your car insurance matters!)
And so much more
Resources:
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Check out Jewell’s website and podcast, All Things Iceland
Jewell’s ultimate packing checklist
Schedule a trip-planning call
Iceland map and travel resources
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Follow on Instagram
Get Jewell’s Top 10 Iceland Hidden Gems list
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