Radiovagabond

In this final episode from Elk Horn, Iowa – the most Danish town in America – I visit the local cemetery, where history is literally carved in stone. Warren Whatson, the caretaker and local historian, shares stories about the early Danish settlers and how names and traditions changed over time. Then I meet Stan Jens, the big-bearded mayor of Elk Horn, who invites me for a beer in his Harley garage. Between motorcycles and laughter, we talk about preserving Danish culture, small-town pride, and community spirit. It's a perfect ending to my time in "Dane Country." See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/339-elk-horn-iowa/

Welcome back to Elk Horn, Iowa – a small Midwestern town that became the heart of Danish America. In this episode, we hear a remarkable coincidence about the first Danes to arrive here, visit the historic Danish Windmill with manager Lisa Steen Riggs, and explore The Museum of Danish America. I also get a personal tour of "Bedstemor's Hus," built in 1908 by the colorful local legend known as Prince Otto. From documentaries that made locals famous in Denmark to preserved heritage homes and cultural festivals, Elk Horn continues to celebrate its Danish roots with pride. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/338-elk-horn-iowa/

Welcome to Elk Horn, Iowa – a tiny farming town of about 650 people that calls itself Dane Country. I'm spending time with locals to find out how Danish it still is today. I stay in a Danish-style BnB, eat æbleskiver with medister sausage for breakfast, visit a real 1848 windmill brought here piece by piece from Denmark, and sit down with the people keeping the heritage alive. I also dive into the story of the Danes who left everything in the 1860s and crossed the Atlantic in search of a better life on the American prairie. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/335-elk-horn-iowa-usa/

In this final episode from Saudi Arabia, I travel from the peaceful Red Sea town of Yanbu to vibrant Jeddah – and end the journey at the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival near Riyadh. Along the way, I meet generous locals at a night market, stay with a kind CouchSurfing host, and visit the world's tallest unfinished skyscraper, the Jeddah Tower, now standing eerily still in the desert. The trip ends in true Saudi style – surrounded by majestic camels competing in a beauty contest with millions at stake. This country has surprised me in every way. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/257-saudi-arabia/

In this episode, my travel partner Cynthia and I explore Al Ula in northwestern Saudi Arabia – where ancient culture meets cutting-edge architecture. We stroll through Old Town’s 1,300 mudbrick houses, chat with a modern young Saudi woman named Dalal, and marvel at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building shimmering in the desert. We also test our luck (and our rental car) in the sand again – with a dramatic sunset rescue by friendly locals. As Saudi Arabia opens up to visitors, this mix of hospitality, history, and high-tech design feels like a glimpse into the country’s future. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/254-saudi-arabia/

In this episode, we leave Riyadh behind and head for “The Edge of the World” – a jaw-dropping cliff where the desert drops into infinity. With only vague directions from a CouchSurfing friend (“Go to the mosque… don’t die”), my travel buddy Cynthia and I set out on a 4,000 km road trip across Saudi Arabia. We encounter rare desert rain, camel caravans, endless dunes, and the unexpected kindness of strangers. The journey leads us through Hail and into Al-Ula, where we stand face-to-face with the ancient beauty of Elephant Rock – and, of course, get stuck in the sand. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/251-saudi-arabia/

Join me on an unforgettable journey across Saudi Arabia – from the futuristic capital Riyadh to the dramatic Red Sand Dunes where my travel partner Cynthia and I got repeatedly stuck. Along the way, we discover a country transforming itself through Vision 2030, meet warm and curious locals, and experience the blend of old traditions and bold modernization that defines the new KSA. We explore everything from a stressful airport check-in and a not-yet-running metro to quad biking in the desert and sunset reflections in Riyadh’s Nabd Al Riyadh. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/248-saudi-arabia/

In this flashback episode, I’m in Rio de Janeiro – a city bursting with life, rhythm, and contradictions. From the stunning beaches of Copacabana to the chaotic streets where danger can lurk in the shadows, Rio is a place that never lets you relax completely. Join me as I dive into the culture, meet the locals, and experience both the breathtaking beauty and the raw edges of this remarkable city. It’s a story of awe, adrenaline, and one unforgettable night. Listen to the episode, and if you want to see the photos and read more about this trip, visit: https://www.theradiovagabond.com/215-rio-de-janeiro/

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.

In this colorful Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I take you to the tropical paradise of the Philippines. Join me as I island-hop through crystal-clear waters, meet fascinating locals, and dive below the surface – literally. While scuba diving, I find myself face-to-face with some familiar characters… yes, even Nemo and Dory make an appearance in this underwater adventure. But there’s more than just coral and clownfish – I also explore the vibrant culture, including a lively encounter with some charismatic ladyboys who show me another side of island life. It’s a blend of natural beauty, unexpected conversations, and the kind of travel stories you can’t make up. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/podcast-012/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on October 5, 2017.

In this emotional Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel to Bessemer, Alabama to experience Gip’s Place – a legendary juke joint founded in the backyard of Henry “Gip” Gipson. At the time, Gip was an astonishing 97 years old, still hosting Saturday night blues sessions in his tin-roofed music shed alongside family, locals, and wandering musicians. His motto, “No black, no white, just blues,” resonated through every note. Update: Sadly, Henry “Gip” Gipson passed away on October 8, 2019, at the age of 99, closing a chapter on one of America’s last authentic juke joints. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/066-alabama/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on March 15, 2019.

In this high-stress Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I find myself in the heart of Dakar, Senegal, with a bus leaving at 7 am – and a taxi driver who has no idea where the bus terminal is. What follows is a chaotic ride through a waking city, a ticking clock, and rising panic. But this episode isn’t just about the stress. Along the way, I also meet a talented local artist and an inspiring Italian woman working with UNICEF. It’s a snapshot of the real Senegal – unpredictable, vibrant, and full of character. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/118-dakar/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on November 12, 2020.

In this offbeat episode of The Radio Vagabond, I find myself in beautiful Bali, sipping on what might be the strangest – and most expensive – cup of coffee I’ve ever had. It's called Luwak coffee, made from beans that have been eaten, digested, and yes, pooped out by a civet cat. Then it’s cleaned, roasted, and brewed into a surprisingly smooth cup of coffee. Whether it’s a gimmick or a gourmet experience, I had to try it for myself. Come with me to a Balinese coffee plantation where I sample this legendary brew, chat with locals, and question my own life choices – one sip at a time. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/212-bali/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on November 25, 2021.

In this provocative Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel to Belarus – often called “Europe’s last dictatorship” – to uncover the lived reality of life under Alexander Lukashenko. As I meet locals and explore Minsk, I ask a bold question: are there bright sides to this autocratic system? Some people credit the regime with preserving economic stability post-USSR, keeping unemployment low and averting the oligarchic chaos seen elsewhere. They say limited online freedoms – like the ability to access opposition sites – create an illusion of choice. But the darker truth sits just beneath the surface. Lukashenko’s heavy censorship, the criminalization of dissent – even for wearing “wrong” socks – and the ongoing use of capital punishment paint a grim picture. This episode digs into these contradictions. I speak with people benefiting from economic predictability, then confront the chilling reality of repression and human rights abuses. It’s a travel story that challenges assumptions – and raises uncomfortable questions. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/182-belarus/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on May 10, 2021.

In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, we head to Pattaya, Thailand – a place with two drastically different faces. First, I take you down one of the wildest party streets on the planet: Walking Street. It's loud, it's chaotic, and it’s absolutely unforgettable. From neon lights and booming music to all kinds of nightlife, it’s a full-on sensory overload. But just beyond the party scene, I discover another side of Pattaya. I visit a local orphanage and meet some remarkable kids and caretakers who bring a human, heartwarming contrast to the city’s infamous reputation. This episode is a rollercoaster – from outrageous to uplifting – all in one city. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/026-pattaya/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on May 3, 2018.

In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I arrive in Memphis, Tennessee – home of the blues, birthplace of rock ’n’ roll, and the city Elvis called home. But things take a slightly awkward turn when I casually mentioned my Danish hometown, Randers, in Graceland… and that got me in trouble. Between the laughs and the local tension, I explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including Beale Street and Graceland. This episode blends cultural contrasts, southern hospitality, and a bit of rock ’n’ roll magic. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/063-memphis/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on January 17, 2019.

In this powerful episode of The Radio Vagabond, we explore one of Cape Town’s most poignant landmarks: District Six. I begin by chatting with Uber drivers – immigrants from Rwanda, Congo and Malawi – who share what life is really like in the city today. Their stories highlight Cape Town’s beauty and its socio-economic challenges, setting a compelling backdrop for what follows. Then we step into the District Six Museum, where history comes alive through photos, maps and personal testimonies. Once a lively, multi‑ethnic neighbourhood of tens of thousands, it was declared a whites‑only area in February 1966. Forced removals displaced over 60,000 residents over the next decade – families torn apart and community destroyed. Today, most of the land remains vacant – a stark reminder of apartheid’s legacy. We hear from former inhabitants who recount heartbreaking stories of resistance, loss and survival. This episode is a journey through memory, resilience and the enduring spirit of community amid injustice. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/151-the-dark-history-of-district-six/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on March 9, 2020.

In this sun-soaked episode of The Radio Vagabond, I take you aboard my unforgettable journey through the Mediterranean on Nomad Cruise. This time, we dock in Menorca, Malta, and Greece, each offering its own flavor of adventure. In Malta, we wander the charming, historic streets. In Greece, we sip local wine at a boutique winery while soaking in the laid-back vibes of the countryside. And somewhere in between, I find myself stepping out of my comfort zone at the cruise ship’s talent show. This episode is a mix of personal stories, cultural experiences, and the joy of connecting with fellow digital nomads at sea. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/169-menorca-malta-and-greece-with-nomad-cruise/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on June 4, 2021.

In this Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel from the urban buzz of Toronto to the laid-back charm of Québec City – and suddenly feel like I’ve landed in Europe. Cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and a French-speaking population give this Canadian gem an old-world feel unlike anywhere else in North America. I soak in the local culture, cuisine, and character while reflecting on how different this part of Canada feels from the rest. If you’ve never been to Québec, this might just put it at the top of your bucket list. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/052-quebec/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on November 1, 2018.

In this heartfelt Flashback Friday episode of The Radio Vagabond, I travel through the beautiful landscapes of northern Nicaragua. But this journey was about much more than scenery. Alongside my new friend John Pappas, I visit a local orphanage – and what I found there left a deep impression on me. The children, the caretakers, and the stories shared in that humble place made this visit one of the most emotional experiences of my travels. It’s a reminder that meaningful moments often come in the most unexpected places. See pictures and read more on https://www.theradiovagabond.com/082-nicaragua/ This Flashback Friday episode was first released on August 22, 2019.