Travel Podcasts, Discovered
Faith-Rooted Solo Travel for Christian Women Over 50
Have you found yourself in a season you didn’t choose?
Maybe your marriage ended.
Maybe you lost your spouse.
Maybe the house is suddenly quiet after years of raising a family.
And now you’re asking the question many Christian women over 50 quietly carry:
“Who am I now?”
Solo Travel Adventures is a podcast for Christian women navigating life after divorce, widowhood, empty nest, or unexpected transition — and who feel a quiet pull toward
100 most recent episodes displayed below
Visit website →Your travel style didn’t start when you booked your first grown-up trip. It started the first time you learned what “new” feels like. We’re digging into the idea of a travel origin story and how childhood experiences can shape your adult relationship
Your suitcase is packed, your itinerary is tight, and your mind is already racing ahead to everything that could go wrong. We have been there. That’s why we’re talking about the link between Christian travel and prayer while traveling and how bringin
You can feel it when travel stops being about seeing more and starts being about becoming more. I’m Cheryl Esch, and I’m sharing the pull I’ve been sitting with lately: the desire for a deeper, quieter kind of solo travel that resets me from the insi
You can feel it when life gets too crowded with roles: mom, partner, caretaker, employee, planner. The calendar stays full, but you start to wonder where you went. That’s why this conversation with Doni Belau, founder of Girl's Guide to the World, hi
We name the hidden thing that stops many midlife women from traveling alone: the fear of what other people will think. We reframe judgment, talk through the comments people make about safety and money, and share simple ways to choose ourselves withou
When life suddenly grows quieter—when the schedule opens up, the house is still, and a new season begins—it can leave you wondering what comes next. In this reflective solo episode, Cheryl invites you to dust off the travel dreams you once tucked awa
Ever wondered how to travel solo without paying more for the privilege—or feeling alone on the road? We welcome Tracey Nesbitt, cofounder and editor at Solo Traveler, for a lively, practical deep dive into the rise of solo travel among women 50+ and
The hardest part of divorce isn’t the paperwork. It’s waking up to a life that no longer feels familiar. Your name. Your routines. Your identity. And the question that whispers in the quiet: Who am I now? In this episode, we talk honestly about the e
You feel the pull to travel alone. But something inside says, “That’s not me.” Not because you can’t. Because it feels unfamiliar. If you’ve ever thought: “It feels selfish to leave.” “I’m the responsible one.” “That kind of travel isn’t me.” “Isn’t
What if confidence isn’t something you wait for—but something you build? In this episode, Cheryl explores how solo travel becomes a practical path to steady, grounded confidence for women over 50. From small starter trips to bigger adventures, each e
What if confidence for solo travel doesn’t start at the airport—but in your own town? In this episode, Cheryl shares 12 simple solo date ideas designed to build self-trust, independence, and ease in public spaces—so future solo travel feels natural i
Should you travel solo—or invite a friend along? If you’ve ever shared a dream trip idea only to have someone invite themselves, this episode will help you decide what truly fits your season, your personality, and your purpose. In this conversation,
Have you ever come home from a trip feeling clearer, lighter, or suddenly certain about what needs to change? In this episode, Cheryl explores why purposeful travel often creates powerful life shifts—and why stepping into a new environment can move t
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. F
What happens when the house grows quiet — and you’re left wondering who you are now? The empty nest season can feel freeing… and disorienting. After decades of caregiving, coordinating, and putting others first, many women find themselves asking: Wha
What if your next solo trip wasn’t just a vacation — but part of your healing? In this deeply personal episode, Cheryl shares how a two-week solo journey after divorce became the beginning of something far bigger than she expected. What started as sp
Are you still waiting for the perfect time to take that dream trip? For many women, travel goals sit quietly on a bucket list year after year. Not because we don’t want them — but because life feels uncertain, responsibilities feel heavy, and fear wh
Where should you travel in 2026 — especially as a solo woman over 50? Travel trends are shifting. Crowded European hotspots are cooling down. More women are choosing meaningful, less touristy destinations that offer safety, infrastructure, and cultur
Solo travel is beautiful—but it’s not always glamorous. Behind the dreamy photos and bucket-list destinations, there are realities that don’t make the highlight reel. In this episode, Cheryl shares five honest truths about solo travel so you can prep
Is cruising worth it—especially if you usually prefer independent travel? In this episode, Cheryl shares her first cruise experience sailing out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and visiting five Caribbean islands in seven days. She offers an honest look at
Packing for an 11-day trip doesn’t have to feel chaotic, heavy, or overwhelming. In this episode, Cheryl shares a simple, repeatable packing system that blends capsule wardrobe principles with the practical 5-4-3-2-1 method—so you can travel light wi
Travel in 2026 isn’t about rushing back to crowded hotspots. It’s about choosing experiences with intention, calm, and clarity. In this episode, Cheryl explores the biggest travel trends shaping 2026—and how women over 50 can turn them into realistic
Why do you travel? Before choosing a destination, booking a flight, or building an itinerary, this single question can reshape everything. In this episode, Cheryl reflects on 100,000 downloads and three years of Solo Travel Adventures by exploring ho
What if your travel bucket list wasn’t a scoreboard—but a compass? In this episode, Cheryl shares a fresh approach to creating a travel bucket list that reflects your season of life, your energy, and your deeper purpose. Instead of chasing trends or
Should you still travel when the news feels uncertain? From government shutdowns to global conflicts, headlines can create hesitation—especially for solo women travelers. In this episode, Cheryl walks through how to travel with discernment instead of
What if travel doesn’t just change your scenery—but actually rewires your brain and body? In this episode, Cheryl explores the science behind awe and why moments of wonder—whether on a mountaintop, in a quiet museum, or walking through an ancient cit
The holidays can feel heavy when your life doesn’t look the way it used to. If you’re navigating divorce, widowhood, or an empty nest, the stretch between Thanksgiving and New Year’s can bring grief, loneliness, and the ache of changed traditions. In
Could guided group travel be your next brave step? In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Avery Hale-Smith, Chief Experience Officer at Backroads, to explore how active, guided adventures are changing the way women experience travel around the world.
Overwhelmed by too many travel possibilities? Choosing your next destination can feel exciting—and paralyzing. In this episode, Cheryl shares six distinct approaches to picking your next getaway, from playful spontaneity to deeply intentional plannin
What if the ground beneath your feet could tell you what kind of trip you need? In this episode, Cheryl shares a powerful metaphor discovered during a solo road trip to West Texas: the terrain you’re walking—sandy, rocky, paved, or steady—mirrors the
Think you’ve never been a solo traveler? Think again. If you’ve ever run errands alone, taken yourself to lunch, or planned something independently, you’ve already practiced the core skills of solo travel. The only difference is the destination. In t
What’s really stopping you from taking a solo road trip? For many women, it’s not the desire—it’s the hesitation around safety, logistics, and the unknown. In this episode, Cheryl walks through the essential guide to planning a solo road trip that fe
Are other people’s fears shaping your decisions? If you’ve hesitated to travel solo because of warnings, doubt, or “what if” conversations, this episode is for you. After six years of intentional solo travel beginning in her 50s, Cheryl shares what s
What if your next trip wasn’t about sightseeing—but about slowing down with a good book? A surprising travel trend is rising in 2025: reading retreats. These quiet, intentional getaways are designed for book lovers who crave uninterrupted time to rea
The empty nest doesn’t end your relationship with your children—it reshapes it. As summer vacations fade and college drop-offs happen across the country, many parents find themselves wondering how to stay connected to their adult children in meaningf
Artificial intelligence is changing how we plan, book, and experience travel—whether we’re ready for it or not. From AI-powered airline pricing to translation apps and itinerary builders, technology is reshaping nearly every step of the travel journe
What if travel could help you process grief in ways familiar places cannot? In this deeply personal episode, Cheryl shares how a trip to Jamaica—just weeks after losing her mother—became an unexpected turning point in her healing journey. Surrounded
You want to travel—but something feels stuck. For many women, the hesitation isn’t logistics. It’s grief, trauma, divorce, or loss that quietly keeps them in survival mode. Even the thought of planning a solo trip can feel overwhelming. In this episo
Trying to save money on travel—but ending up frustrated, exhausted, or uncomfortable? In this episode, Cheryl shares five real budget travel mistakes that actually cost her more in time, energy, comfort, and peace of mind. Because sometimes the cheap
What happens when a woman who has felt like a “caged bird” for decades finally steps into freedom? In this powerful conversation, Cheryl speaks with Linda Magoon, who left a controlling marriage in her mid-50s and began rebuilding her life—one mounta
Ever left for a trip and suddenly wondered… Did I unplug the curling iron? Did I lock the door? Pre-trip anxiety can steal your excitement before you even reach the airport. In this episode, Cheryl shares eight essential steps to prepare your home be
What would drive a woman to sell everything she owns and travel halfway around the world alone? For Tess Millhollon, it was the need to reclaim her sense of self after surviving sexual assault in college. In this powerful episode, she shares how seve
Is solo travel really unsafe… lonely… or selfish? Many women over 50 hesitate to travel alone because of persistent myths and well-meaning warnings from others. In this episode, Cheryl challenges the most common misconceptions that keep women sidelin
Perimenopause doesn’t mean your travel days are over—but it may mean you need a smarter strategy. Hot flashes, night sweats, and unpredictable temperature shifts can make even the most beautiful destinations feel uncomfortable without preparation. In
Craving adventure—but not the airports, high prices, or complicated planning? A solo road trip might be the simplest, most freeing way to travel this summer. In this episode, Cheryl shares how hitting the open road—whether for a day, a weekend, or a
No flights booked. No big vacation countdown. Just an empty summer calendar. If you’re feeling behind because you don’t have travel plans this season, take a breath. A meaningful summer doesn’t require expensive airfare or months of preparation. In t
Ever scroll through travel photos and wonder, How do people afford this? Here’s the truth: most travelers aren’t wealthy, sponsored, or living off social media income. They’re regular people who prioritize travel intentionally and fund it creatively.
What kind of traveler are you—really? Do you stretch every dollar to travel longer? Prefer boutique hotels and comfort? Chase adrenaline? Or lose yourself in museums and history? In this episode, Cheryl explores six distinct travel personalities and
What do you do when life forces you to start over? After losing her job, her beloved dog, and her sense of stability in 2019, Allison Gonzalez made a bold decision: instead of rebuilding the same life, she chose the open road. In this episode, Cheryl
What happens when you step into a landscape so vast and raw that it shifts your perspective instantly? In this episode, Cheryl shares her solo journey through Iceland—where volcanic plains meet glacier-topped mountains, black sand beaches stretch bes
Have you ever been so overwhelmed—by grief, stress, or a messy middle season—that you just want to get away? Not to run from your life… but to breathe again. To heal. To hear God clearly. In this episode, Cheryl talks with Danielle Hebert, who went t
How to Avoid Tourist Traps: See Iconic Destinations Without the Crowds Ever look at those “places you must see before you die” lists and feel the pressure to go… but dread the crowds, high prices, and tourist chaos? In this episode, Cheryl shares sim
Planning a trip to Portugal? If you only have one day in Porto — what should you actually prioritize? In this episode, Cheryl shares her personal solo travel experience in Porto and the simple walking route that made the city unforgettable. From tile
Are you a spreadsheet traveler… or a go-with-the-flow adventurer? The way you live your everyday life often shows up in how you travel. In this episode, Cheryl breaks down the real pros and cons of planning every detail versus leaving room for sponta
Have you ever gotten so comfortable that you stopped paying attention? Cheryl shares a simple moment — an unzipped purse at lunch — that became a powerful reminder about financial safety while traveling. When you travel solo, protecting your money is
Travel regulations are constantly evolving, with several significant changes coming in 2025 that will affect both domestic and international journeys. Understanding these new rules now will help you prepare and avoid unexpected complications during y
Do you stare at an empty suitcase the night before your trip, or struggle to zip one that's bursting at the seams? The chronic overpacker's dilemma is real, but there's a better way to prepare for your adventures. After years of streamlining my packi
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 guil
Why do people choose to travel solo? This captivating episode provides an in-depth look at the many facets of solo travel and the intrinsic motivations that draw people to explore the world on their own terms. The conversation dives into personal ane
Traveling with food allergies doesn't have to be a daunting experience. Join me, Cheryl Esch, as I share my personal journey and practical strategies for navigating the world with a host of dietary restrictions. Whether you're allergic to peanuts, so
Have you ever wondered how a single book could change your life trajectory? As someone who has been profoundly influenced by literature, I invite you to join me on an exploration of how books serve as a bridge between our dreams and reality. From the
Facing the daunting headlines of plane crashes, I found myself pondering how to make solo travel less intimidating and more secure. Ever wondered how to travel with peace of mind, knowing you're prepared for any bump along the way? This episode promi
Ever found yourself buried under a mountain of travel emails and confirmations, unsure of what’s what and where’s where? You're not alone. I'm here to share how I found my way through the chaos of planning a spontaneous trip to Florida. Discover the
Imagine turning your next travel escape into a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. That's exactly what I, Cheryl Esch, aim to help you achieve in our latest episode. Having used travel as a means to cope with the pressures of my corporate
Ever felt let down by a travel destination that didn't match the vibrant photos you saw online? You're not alone. I share my personal experience at Rainbow Mountain in Peru, where reality didn't quite live up to my expectations. Let's explore how set
Ever wondered how to align your travel dreams with your life's current season or find the perfect destination for a soul-soothing solo journey? We promise that by the end of this episode, you'll not only have a clearer vision of your 2025 travel goal
As we bid farewell to 2024, I’m excited to share an inspiring journey through the voices of 13 incredible women who graced the podcast this year. From the universal language of food with Annie Sim of The Table Less Traveled to the enlightening perspe
Stephanie Zito takes us on an extraordinary adventure from a childhood with little travel to conquering the globe with 153 countries under her belt. Sparked by her grandparents' tales and a teacher's mesmerizing slideshows, Stephanie's journey truly
Unlock the secrets to a memorable solo travel experience with our exclusive guide to the safest and most captivating destinations of 2025. Discover how cities like Brisbane, Australia, offer a vibrant culture and nightlife alongside unmatched safety,
Ever wondered how your next travel adventure could be influenced by the stars, or even your favorite TV show? Join us for a captivating exploration of travel trends shaping 2025. We promise you'll uncover insights into how eco-tourism is not just a b
What if exploring the world could also deepen your sense of community? Join us as we welcome Kimberly Long, a cherished listener and fellow Texan whose recent adventures have taken her through the breathtaking landscapes of Oregon and Washington on a
What happens when a corporate risk manager swaps her suit for a paddle and a sense of adventure? Meet Sarah Davis, an inspiring adventurer whose journey from the boardroom to the Nile's wild waters is nothing short of remarkable. We promise you'll un
Are you ready to safeguard your digital life during your travels? From avoiding the perils of free Wi-Fi, especially in airports, to steering clear of public USB ports, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep your data secure. W
Imagine escaping the dreary winter chills to sunlit paradises where the sand is warm, and the worries of everyday life melt away. As we mark the second anniversary of our podcast and celebrate the milestone of over 50,000 downloads, we reflect on the
Sharon McQuaid's journey from a Texas classroom to the enchanting streets of Paris is nothing short of inspirational. As a former educator, Sharon bravely transitioned during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving behind systemic issues and
Embarking on a solo road trip from Texas to Maine amidst the vibrant fall foliage, I discovered the profound healing power of travel during a tumultuous time in my life. As I reflect on this journey, it was pivotal in regaining my independence and se
What if your journey could transform you in ways you never expected? Join me as I recount my solo adventure walking the Camino, where each step brought new insights and challenges. From pushing too hard on the first day to learning the art of lighten
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to embrace a nomadic lifestyle after decades of traditional living? This episode brings you Kim’s extraordinary journey from a settled family life to a liberating nomadic existence. Kim, an adventurous empty nest
What if you could transform your life by simply walking? Join us as we share an extraordinary conversation with Joy Alway, a seasoned hiker and author, who has journeyed across multiple Camino de Santiago routes. Joy’s epic 1,754-kilometer trek from
Have you ever dreamed of embarking on a centuries-old pilgrimage? Join me as I take you through my rigorous preparations for walking the Camino de Santiago, beginning from the scenic city of Porto, Portugal, and taking the breathtaking coastal route.
Ever wondered about the latest travel updates that could make or break your next adventure? Don't miss out on crucial news that could affect your plans, from new tourist fees to digital entry systems in Europe. This episode is packed with insights th
Ever wondered how artificial intelligence could transform your travel plans. We'll explore how AI tools like ChatGPT, Poe, Claude, and Google Gemini can simplify the often overwhelming task of trip planning. I’ll also stress the importance of verifyi
Ready to uncover the secrets of snagging the best flight deals without the hassle? I break down the myth of the "Tuesday deal" and reveal the real "Goldilock's window" for booking flights. Whether you're planning a domestic trip or an international e
Do you ever wonder how to stay connected without breaking the bank while exploring the world? Cheryl uncovers the secrets to mastering SIM cards and eSIMs for international travel. Learn from her personal experiences with different mobile providers,
Have you ever wondered how to escape the monotony of your routine without venturing too far from home? Join me as I share my journey of creating a local bucket list that's both accessible and thrilling. From the excitement of attending a rodeo at the
What happens when a childhood road trip sparks a lifelong passion for adventure and discovery? Meet Beth Binger, better known as Bing, the founder of WonderBing Travel. In this episode, Bing takes us back to her transformative journey from Pennsylvan
Ever wondered what it's like to have complete freedom on your travels? Join me on an exploration of the empowering benefits of solo travel. In this episode, I promise you'll uncover seven compelling reasons to embark on a solo adventure, even if you'
Can travel restrictions spark a lifelong passion for exploration? This episode features Polina Ruvinsky, the inspiring founder of Hype HQ, who takes us from her early days in Soviet Russia to her adventures across 43 countries. We uncover how her cur
We are so dependent on technology for everything, including traveling. But there is often no way around it. What happens when technology fails us in our most crucial moments? In this episode, we tackle the dependency on travel tech and how to navigat
Ever wondered what makes Queensland, Australia such a compelling destination? Join us as we welcome back the adventurous Julie Fenn, who shares her incredible journey across this stunning state. From exploring vibrant rainforests and hinterlands to r
Ever wondered how to turn your travel dreams into reality without breaking the bank? Discover the secrets to frequent travel through minimalist living and savvy financial strategies! We share our personal stories and effective tips, from tracking dai
Protect yourself from travel scams this summer with practical tips and real-life stories that will empower you to travel safely and confidently. Have you ever found yourself in a foreign city, unsure if the cab you're about to get into is legitimate?
Ever wondered how to transform your long-haul flight into a serene, hassle-free experience? Discover my personal flight essentials that will make your journey comfortable and stress-free. From a versatile men's overnight satchel bag from Target to an
Unlock the secrets to making your travels more thrilling and unforgettable, even if you love detailed itineraries! Through a mix of personal anecdotes and expert advice, Cheryl explores everything from last-minute road trips to surprise vacations pla
What if you could transform a rigid, anxiety-filled life into one of peace and spontaneity? Join us as we sit down with Monique Giroux, a former corporate executive who left behind the financial world to embrace the life of a spiritual nomad. Monique
Are you ready to learn how to handle disappointing accommodations and what to do if you find yourself in an awful lodging situation? Join me on this episode where I share personal stories and practical advice on navigating less-than-ideal bookings. D
Have you ever felt the thrill of conquering a fear, turning it into your most cherished strength? That's the transition I underwent when I embarked on my solo travel escapades, and it's a transformation I'm excited to guide you through in our latest
Ever felt the thrill of booking a trip that's just for you, one that sets your spirit alight with anticipation? As the summer beckons with its siren call of vacations and getaways, I share my personal tale of seizing the moment to plan a rejuvenating
Ever found yourself crammed in a car, the scent of snacks mingling with the unmistakable whiff of 'adventure-gone-awry', as you hurtle towards a holiday hotspot with no room booked? That's exactly what happened to us on our uproarious excursion to Ni
Discover the art of crafting your own safe passage through the world's wonders, as I bring to light the subjective reality of safety and the power of trusting your instincts. Through tales of personal experiences and the shared wisdom from seasoned t