What if you stopped waiting to feel ready and just started pedaling?
In this episode, Jackie sits down with Hana Black, a New Zealand cyclist and guide who, together with her partner Mark, bikepacked from Alaska all the way to Ushuaia, Argentina, covering roughly 32,000 miles through 16 countries …What if you stopped waiting to feel ready and just started pedaling?
In this episode, Jackie sits down with Hana Black, a New Zealand cyclist and guide who, together with her partner Mark, bikepacked from Alaska all the way to Ushuaia, Argentina, covering roughly 32,000 miles through 16 countries over more than four years. Hana shares how a quiet dream became a life-shaping quest, what it actually took to fund and begin such a massive adventure, and why you do not need to be an elite athlete or have perfect gear to do something extraordinary.
From remote Alaskan roads and rural villages in Latin America to Cuba, the Salar de Uyuni, the Andes, and Patagonia, this conversation is full of stories about kindness, freedom, fear, flexibility, and the magic of taking life one pedal stroke at a time.
Resources:
• Find out more about bikepacking and cycling from Alaska to Argentina and beyond at Highluxhighlux.co.nz
• Please follow the show, leave a 5-star review if you love it, and share with your travel buddies
• Don’t miss Jackie’s behind-the-scenes communications - hop on our email list at TravelingJackie.com
• Choose your OWN international adventure curated by Jackie at jumpadventures.com
• Follow Hana on Instagram at @beinghana
Produced by NOVA
Take a leap with Jackie IRL - join us in Greece and Norway in 2025 at JUMPadventures.com
Auckland, New Zealand has been growing at a dizzying pace, so Elle-Armon Jones from The Big Foody food tours is back to talk about the changes in her city. We explore the neighborhoods of Ponsonby and K Road. Plus, the only Cambodian restaurant in New Zealand, a memorable Samoan meal, and making gin…Auckland, New Zealand has been growing at a dizzying pace, so Elle-Armon Jones from The Big Foody food tours is back to talk about the changes in her city. We explore the neighborhoods of Ponsonby and K Road. Plus, the only Cambodian restaurant in New Zealand, a memorable Samoan meal, and making gin out of old bread. [Ep 386]
Get $200 back after your first payment of $500 with Melio (affiliate) - https://milestomemories.com/go/melio/
Higher award fees, less lounge access, and one pretty wild new way to sleep on a plane. In this episode of MTM Travel, Shawn and Mark talk through Air New Zealand's new SkyNest bunk beds, V…Get $200 back after your first payment of $500 with Melio (affiliate) - https://milestomemories.com/go/melio/
Higher award fees, less lounge access, and one pretty wild new way to sleep on a plane. In this episode of MTM Travel, Shawn and Mark talk through Air New Zealand's new SkyNest bunk beds, Virgin Atlantic's uglier award surcharges, American cutting more basic economy benefits, Spirit's possible liquidation, and United tightening access to Polaris lounges.
What we cover:
• Shawn's Minneapolis meetup recap and Hyatt Centric stay
• The Fairmont Bermuda / Accor points reimbursement follow-up
• Air New Zealand's SkyNest bunk beds and whether they beat business class for sleep
• Virgin Atlantic's higher award fees and why the value keeps slipping
• American removing more elite perks from basic economy
• Spirit's possible liquidation and what it could mean for fares
• United restricting Polaris lounge access for many Star Alliance partners Links:
• Free newsletter
• Track your travel credit cards for free with Travel Freely
• Miles to Memories Facebook group
• Diamond Patreon and Gold Membership
• MTM Travel podcast
• Miles to Memories website
• Fairmont follow up - https://milestomemories.com/fairmont-hamilton-princess-billing-error/
• Skynest - https://milestomemories.com/air-new-zealand-skynest-economy-beds/
• Virgin hikes - https://milestomemories.com/virgin-atlantic-just-hiked-award-fees-again/
• AA basic economy changes - https://milestomemories.com/american-removes-elite-benefits-in-basic-economy/
• United Polaris access changes - https://milestomemories.com/united-restricts-polaris-lounge-access-for-star-alliance-partners/ Episode Guide
• 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel
• 4:54 Fairmont Bermuda and the Accor points refund mess
• 8:47 Air New Zealand's SkyNest bunk beds
• 13:30 Virgin Atlantic award fees jump again
• 16:59 Using Virgin points for AMC popcorn and drinks
• 18:46 American removes more basic economy elite perks
• 20:04 Spirit may liquidate and fares could get worse
• 23:04 United restricts Polaris lounge access for partner flyers What do you think about Air New Zealand's bunk-bed idea? Would you pay extra for four hours of real sleep, or would you still rather have a traditional business class seat?
Advertiser Disclosure: This site/channel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site/channel (including, for example, the order in which they appear). This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.more
What happens when the person who has edited nearly 100 episodes of this podcast finally puts all those travel tips to the test on his own UK trip? In this episode, our editor Ryan Fairweather from New Zealand shares highlights from his two-month visit to the UK with his partner Tilly, and reveals ho…What happens when the person who has edited nearly 100 episodes of this podcast finally puts all those travel tips to the test on his own UK trip? In this episode, our editor Ryan Fairweather from New Zealand shares highlights from his two-month visit to the UK with his partner Tilly, and reveals how almost every experience on his list came directly from editing the show. Ryan covers his favourite moments in York and London: the wonderful Old York Tea House, the immersive Jorvik Viking Centre...more
Daren Grover was on vacation near the top of New Zealand’s South Island when he got a call: some whales needed help. Hundreds of them had stranded on a spot so notorious for whale strandings, it’s cause for celebration when a year goes by without a stranding: the Farewell Spit.
Have you ever heard another woman’s story and thought, If she can do that, maybe I can too? In this episode, Cheryl revisits four powerful stories from women who discovered that solo travel can become more than a trip—it can become a turning point. From a first international journey to New Zealand… …Have you ever heard another woman’s story and thought, If she can do that, maybe I can too? In this episode, Cheryl revisits four powerful stories from women who discovered that solo travel can become more than a trip—it can become a turning point. From a first international journey to New Zealand… To rebuilding life during divorce in Kuwait… To hiking mountains that quiet anxious thoughts… To finding healing and clarity halfway around the world… Each story reveals how ordin...more
Happy New Year from Destination Eat Drink! On our special New Year’s episode we’re ringing in the new year by banging bread on the wall in Ireland, celebrating the constellation of Matariki in New Zealand, and observing First Footing in Scotland. Plus, throwing furniture off the balcony in Naples an…Happy New Year from Destination Eat Drink! On our special New Year’s episode we’re ringing in the new year by banging bread on the wall in Ireland, celebrating the constellation of Matariki in New Zealand, and observing First Footing in Scotland. Plus, throwing furniture off the balcony in Naples and adding whisky to trifle! [Ep 369]
Show Notes:
Foodie Travel Guides by Destination Eat Drink
Flavour Trails food and whiskey tours in Ireland
Mickela’s TV show Bare Feet
Daniel Stables travel writer
Dan’s book Fiesta: A Journey Through Festivity
Edinburgh food tours with Nell at Edinburgh Food Safari
Brent’s video from the Lille, France Christmas Marketmore
We’re celebrating the 7th anniversary of the Destination Eat Drink podcast with some delicious wines from around the world. There’s the unusual native grapes of Veneto in Italy, a unique wine island near Auckland, New Zealand, a surprising wine region in the United States, and why you shouldn’t slee…We’re celebrating the 7th anniversary of the Destination Eat Drink podcast with some delicious wines from around the world. There’s the unusual native grapes of Veneto in Italy, a unique wine island near Auckland, New Zealand, a surprising wine region in the United States, and why you shouldn’t sleep on the underrated French region of Beaujolais. Plus, wine and food pairing tips! [Ep 366]
Show Notes:
Foodie Travel Guide ebooks from Destination Eat Drink
This week on Drop A Pin we sat down with two players from one of the most prestigious rugby teams of all time, The All Blacks. Billy Proctor and Pasilio Tosi came in the studio to tell Donnie and Chaps the ins and outs of rugby culture, what it means to be an All Black, and New Zealand itself! Then …This week on Drop A Pin we sat down with two players from one of the most prestigious rugby teams of all time, The All Blacks. Billy Proctor and Pasilio Tosi came in the studio to tell Donnie and Chaps the ins and outs of rugby culture, what it means to be an All Black, and New Zealand itself! Then stick around to listen to two of Barstools Biggest Nerds T-Bob and Rudy talk about their interests in New Zealand and specifically relating to the Lord of the Rings series.
Timestamps:
(00:00:37) Pre Boarding
(00:05:49) All Blacks Interview
(00:50:25) New Zealand Discussion with T-Bob and Rudy
Follow Drop A Pin!
IG: TheDropAPinShow
X: DropAPinShow
Tik Tok: TheDropAPinShow
Hear about travel to the top half of New Zealand's South Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about his adopted country.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Trav…Hear about travel to the top half of New Zealand's South Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about his adopted country.
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 here.
Why should you visit the top half of New Zealand's South Island?
Jonty says that this area has "spectacular scenery, natural hot springs, beautiful beaches, world-class vineyards, and whale watching".
Jonty suggests a two-week road trip (with additional optional side trips, particularly for multi-day hikes) starting in Christchurch and looping north through North Canterbury, Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, and Kaikōura before returning to Christchurch. The trip combines cities, hot springs, alpine passes, national parks, short walks and multi-day hikes, vineyards, wildlife, and heritage.
Suggested Itinerary
Days 1–2: Christchurch
Explore the city centre, largely rebuilt post the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes: Hagley Park, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Avon River punting, and the Christchurch Earthquake Memorial.
Visit cultural sites: Canterbury Museum, Christ Church Cathedral ruins, Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, aka the cardboard cathedral, Christchurch Art Centre, Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities, Rutherford’s Den, and Christchurch Art Gallery.
...
https://amateurtraveler.com/northern-south-island-of-new-zealand/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
PBS host Mickela Mallozzi told us about her adventures in Indonesia, Taiwan, New Zealand, Southern Italy and elsewhere, and also discussed what the future holds for her Emmy Award winning show "Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi".
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts …PBS host Mickela Mallozzi told us about her adventures in Indonesia, Taiwan, New Zealand, Southern Italy and elsewhere, and also discussed what the future holds for her Emmy Award winning show "Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi".
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.
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:
This week, we're honored to welcome Sharyn Means, a New Zealand native and CEO of Dove's Rest Cabins, a stunning resort perched on the rim of the Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States. Growing up in one of the most southern Pacific islands in the world, Sharyn developed a …This week, we're honored to welcome Sharyn Means, a New Zealand native and CEO of Dove's Rest Cabins, a stunning resort perched on the rim of the Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States. Growing up in one of the most southern Pacific islands in the world, Sharyn developed a deep connection to the land and the Polynesian concepts of Kiara and Manaakitanga—principles that would eventually transform how she approaches hospitality and land stewardship.
Sharyn takes us on a journey through her transformation from corporate project manager to passionate advocate for meaningful hospitality rooted in something deeper than service. She describes that pivotal moment standing at the canyon's rim for the first time, feeling an immediate spiritual connection to the raw landscape and its rich history that would shape her future. That initial experience sparked what would become a mission to help guests disconnect from the outside world to reconnect with themselves, nature, and the profound peace that only deep rest can provide.
In this episode, we explore the profound meaning of Kiara beyond simple welcome, the sacred concept of Manaakitanga in caring for land and people, and how Sharyn's blend of New Zealand spirit and Texas hospitality has created a bridge between luxury and authentic connection to place. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through passion, honoring the land while serving others, and what it truly means to provide a space for deep rest and renewal.more
Mickela Mallozzi, Emmy award-winning host of PBS's Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi, transforms strangers into dance partners across seven continents.
Whether learning sean-nós in Ireland or celebrating Matariki in New Zealand, in this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, Mickela reveals how asking perm…Mickela Mallozzi, Emmy award-winning host of PBS's Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi, transforms strangers into dance partners across seven continents.
Whether learning sean-nós in Ireland or celebrating Matariki in New Zealand, in this episode of Travel Tales by Afar, Mickela reveals how asking permission opens doors to authentic cultural experiences—and why the best travel connections happen when you follow your passion.
In this episode, you'll discover
How cultural appreciation differs from cultural appropriation—and why permission is key
What it's like to film a travel show without rehearsals or mirrors
Why dance reveals migration patterns and cultural connections across continents
Don't miss these transformative moments
[03:00] How Mickela's mission evolved from selfish adventure to platform for marginalized communities
[06:00] The weekly Zoom meetings with Māori elders that made filming in New Zealand possible
[11:00] Growing up in an immigrant family—from slaughtering chickens in Italy to catching the travel bug
[14:00] The Europade festival that reminded her why she fell in love with this work
[19:00] How Irish sean-nós connects to Appalachian clogging and eventually becomes tap dancing
[23:00] Why the Caribbean is her favorite place to see cultural fusion in action
[28:00] Her best travel advice: Find what you love at home, then do it everywhere you go
Read the transcript of the episode
Follow Mickela Mallozzi on Instagram.
Watch Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi seasons 7 and 8 (premiering December 2025)
Read more about Mickela's adventures in Ireland and Morocco on afar.com.
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
Could the least-visited places offer the most rewarding travel experiences?
Jonty Crane is a New Zealand-based traveler, guidebook author, and longtime advocate for meaningful, off-the-beaten-path travel. With over 75 countries under his belt, he’s currently volunteering in Timor-Leste, where he’s…Could the least-visited places offer the most rewarding travel experiences?
Jonty Crane is a New Zealand-based traveler, guidebook author, and longtime advocate for meaningful, off-the-beaten-path travel. With over 75 countries under his belt, he’s currently volunteering in Timor-Leste, where he’s helping promote sustainable tourism while living the slow travel lifestyle.
In this episode, we unpack what makes Timor-Leste one of the most under-the-radar travel destinations in the world. From coral reefs and dramatic mountain landscapes to warm, welcoming locals and a fascinating (if difficult) history, Jonty gives us a deep look at what it’s like to live and travel there and why more people should consider visiting.
We talk about the difference between traditional tourism and slow travel, and how living and volunteering in a place like Timor-Leste can offer deeper insight, stronger connection, and more personal transformation than a quick trip ever could. Jonty also shares his favorite things to do in the country, what to expect when traveling there, and how to navigate the lack of infrastructure without losing your mind. Plus, you’ll get three of his top picks for other lesser-visited destinations that are worth the effort.
Have you ever traveled somewhere that felt like a true hidden gem? What made it special for you? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
Tune In To Learn:
Why Timor-Leste gets so few tourists and why that’s part of its magic
How it feels to be one of the only foreigners in a place (and how locals respond)
What slow travel really means, and how it compares to traditional tourism
Advice for traveling in places with limited infrastructure (and why it’s worth it)
Jonty’s take on authenticity, cultural connection, and purpose-driven travel
The best things to do in Timor-Leste, from coral reefs to mountain hikes
What it’s like volunteering abroad and “working” while exploring
Why slow travel doesn’t have to mean doing nothing
A peek at Timor-Leste’s rich history and resilient spirit
And so much more
Resources:
Sign up for our FREE newsletter
Jonty’s website and Instagram
Exploring Timor-Leste website
Jonty’s books on Timor-Leste
Exploring Timor-Leste Podcast
TikTok
YouTube
Want More?
Exploring Tibet with Robert Kelly
Top 10 Hidden Gems: East Africa (Beyond the Safari) and Transitioning to Travel With Sasha and Megnote Lezhnev
Here Not There: Alternative Destinations With Less Crowds (And Meaningful Experiences) with National Geographic Author Andrew Nelson
Thanks To Our Sponsors
Apple Card - Earn 3% back on the Apple products and services you love with Apple Card.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
Donna Pleiman is a Kentucky-based doctor who spent 6 months with her family in New Zealand during Covid.
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 p…Donna Pleiman is a Kentucky-based doctor who spent 6 months with her family in New Zealand during Covid.
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.
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:
Hear about New Zealand Great Walks as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from jontynz.com about these amazing multi-day treks in his home country.
Picture snow-capped mountains, volcanic landscapes, brilliant blue alpine lakes, epic coastal scenery, unusual native birds, wilderness as far as…Hear about New Zealand Great Walks as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from jontynz.com about these amazing multi-day treks in his home country.
Picture snow-capped mountains, volcanic landscapes, brilliant blue alpine lakes, epic coastal scenery, unusual native birds, wilderness as far as the eye can see, golden sand beaches, historic sites, lush moss-filled bush, and huge waterfalls.
New Zealand has ten Great Walks, 3-5 day hikes (or tramps in NZ) through some of the finest scenery in this beautiful country.
The Great Walks are an accessible introduction to multi-day hikes. They have well-maintained tracks and cosy huts, providing a relatively safe experience.These aren't the luxury hikes available in Europe; you will generally carry almost everything you need, and won't have a shower for a few days, but they're incredibly rewarding experiences.
Jonty gives an overview of each walk in alphabetical order, and finishes with general information and recommendations.
...
https://amateurtraveler.com/new-zealand-great-walks/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
Today we're in for some adventure. We'll start off white water kayaking, sprinkle in a little bungee, and end by summiting a mountain. Along the way we'll hear stories about a truly unique landscape, rich cultural history, and incredible food to boot.
Joining me today to chat all things New Zealan…Today we're in for some adventure. We'll start off white water kayaking, sprinkle in a little bungee, and end by summiting a mountain. Along the way we'll hear stories about a truly unique landscape, rich cultural history, and incredible food to boot.
Joining me today to chat all things New Zealand is our adventure partner in the country, Phil Boorman. Phil spent his entire life leading far flung experiences around the globe until deciding to come home and show off his country to adventurous travelers.
We chat about how to have meaningful experiences as a tourist, life lessons learned from adventures, and how New Zealand gives you the time and space to slow down and enjoy.
If you're looking for a sense of meaning, luxury, and unique experiences all wrapped into one - this is the episode for you. I hope you enjoy this fun chat, on Luxury Travel Insider.
Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels
If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/
Hear about travel to Auckland, New Zealand, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about a city that he called home for a decade.
Why should you go to Auckland?
Jonty says, "Many people go to New Zealand, but spend almost no time in Auckland. It's a bit like a little siste…Hear about travel to Auckland, New Zealand, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about a city that he called home for a decade.
Why should you go to Auckland?
Jonty says, "Many people go to New Zealand, but spend almost no time in Auckland. It's a bit like a little sister or brother to Sydney in Australia, but with some unique New Zealand characteristics. There are over 50 extinct volcanoes. It's between two natural harbors. There are some very beautiful islands which are easily accessible from the CBD, and it's also got excellent restaurants, museums, art galleries, and beaches."
Waiheke Island:
Jonty’s Recommendations for Visiting AucklandExplore the Islands of the Hauraki Gulf
,,,
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-auckland-new-zealand/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
In this episode we talk about leaving stress behind and embracing serenity through the South Pacific’s most acclaimed spa and wellness escapes. From the crystal-clear lagoons of French Polynesia to the alpine lakes of New Zealand, we share where to go when you want to just breathe, just pause, and j…In this episode we talk about leaving stress behind and embracing serenity through the South Pacific’s most acclaimed spa and wellness escapes. From the crystal-clear lagoons of French Polynesia to the alpine lakes of New Zealand, we share where to go when you want to just breathe, just pause, and just feel good again.
We tour six locations including The Brando, Six Senses Fiji, Aro Ha Retreat, Namale, Four Seasons Bora Bora, and Vahine Island—each with distinct treatments that blend local tradition with modern wellness. Whether it's a monoï massage under the palms or a detox menu curated by wellness chefs, these sanctuaries cater to body, mind, and spirit.
You’ll get practical tips for planning your wellness journey, such as booking sunrise yoga sessions, choosing eco-conscious spas, and understanding how local ingredients like volcanic clay and black pearl powder enhance your glow. This episode invites you to travel for you—to feel whole, healed, and deeply relaxed.more
Are you dreaming of taking a solo trip but feeling apprehensive? Join me as we delve into the inspiring journey of Leigh Barborek, who bravely faced her fears to travel solo to New Zealand for the very first time. From grappling with feelings of guilt and safety concerns to thrilling adventures and …Are you dreaming of taking a solo trip but feeling apprehensive? Join me as we delve into the inspiring journey of Leigh Barborek, who bravely faced her fears to travel solo to New Zealand for the very first time. From grappling with feelings of guilt and safety concerns to thrilling adventures and newfound independence, Leigh shares her heartfelt experiences and lessons learned. In this episode, we explore the emotional journey leading up to solo travel, including decision-making, pla...more
