Zero To Travel Podcast

How would your life change if you decided to take a mini-retirement to travel the world, instead of waiting? After saving for two years, Helen Lin and her former husband, Tim, put their life into storage, rented out their home, and quit their 9–5 jobs to take off on a mini-retirement traveling around the world. They documented their 25+ month adventure across 26 countries on their YouTube channel, Helen and Tim Travel. Along the way, their relationship was reshaped by the experience, and they ultimately returned home divorced, still grateful for the journey they shared. In this episode, Helen shares what it actually looked like to plan and take an extended trip as a mini retirement, including the practical runway, the emotional realities, and the unexpected ways long-term travel can impact your relationships. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking months off to travel, this conversation gives you a grounded look at what it takes to make it happen and what you might learn about yourself along the way. Helen talks about building a financial runway, using local guides to lower the friction of adventure travel, and why campervan trips can be their own logistical puzzle. We also get honest about the parts people rarely post, stress, mental health, and the way constant proximity can intensify relationship dynamics. Plus, Helen shares destination recommendations and the practical systems that helped them stay on the road, including earning 1.5 million credit card points over five years to offset major travel costs. If you took a mini retirement, what would you want it to help you rethink about your life right now? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Helen thinks “mini retirement” beats waiting for traditional retirement How increasing your savings rate can create a real travel runway Advice for choosing destinations around seasonality and the adventures you want most How guided trips can reduce risk and planning overwhelm for big hikes and outdoor goals What Helen learned from campervanning in Norway and New Zealand, and what she’d plan differently How long-term travel can amplify relationship patterns, for better or for worse Why “wherever you go, there you are” applies to mental health on the road How to think about boundaries and personal space when traveling with a partner How Helen and Tim earned about 1.5M points and miles over time to support their travels What it looks like to come home and build a new chapter after a life-shifting trip And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Instagram Helen and Tim Travel Waves of Color Want More? How to Win at Travel with “The Points Guy” Brian Kelly Travel Is Your Birthright: Breaking Free from “Too Broke to Travel”, Travel Hacking (Without Credit Cards), and Solo Travel in 90+ Countries with Shakeemah Smith How to Plan Your Camino + Going Beyond the Camino Frances (Secret Routes, Donkey Highways, and Spain’s Hidden Village Network) with Shawn and Lainey Thanks To Our Sponsors Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Earn Cash Back and rewards on nearly every purchase with Rakuten. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shakeemah Smith, aka The Passport Abuser, is a solo traveler who has visited 92 countries and helped more than 12,000 people ace their first solo trip. A former social worker from East Orange, New Jersey, she built her platform, Travel Like a Bawse, to teach practical strategies for traveling more affordably and flipping everyday bills into airline miles. She later relocated to Antigua and Barbuda, where she now lives as an expat. In this episode, we talk about the personal shift that makes solo travel possible, how to travel for free without credit cards, and what it’s really like to move abroad and build a life in the Caribbean. Shakeemah opens up about calling off her wedding three months before the big day, boarding her first solo flight to Paris in the middle of heartbreak, and realizing she didn’t know how to be alone. What follows is a conversation about self-trust, identity, and deciding to meet the “2.0 version” of yourself instead of waiting for permission. We also get tactical. Shakeemah shares the exact systems she used to earn airline miles through everyday expenses like gas, groceries, utilities, and dining. And we talk honestly about leaving the U.S., adjusting to island life, and what it means to create safety and belonging on your own terms. If you’ve been waiting for the right time, the right money, or the right person to travel with, this one might challenge that story. Who would you become if you stopped waiting and just went? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How growing up near New York City shaped her worldview and early curiosity about the world Why ending her engagement forced her to confront her fear of being alone The insights and exercises that helped Shakeemah move from emotional dependence to independence and from fear to self-trust Why she believes solo travel is a fast track to trusting your instincts and enjoying your own company The moment she decided to build a framework to help others take their first solo trip How she turned 34 countries’ worth of lessons into a structured framework for new travelers The overlooked airline shopping portals that generate miles without opening new credit cards How to earn flights from gas, electricity, and everyday bills you’re already paying The mindset behind “bills to boarding passes” and why it works long term Why she moved to Antigua and Barbuda during 2020 and what that decision taught her about safety and lifestyle design The cultural adjustments of living on island time and navigating life as an American expat And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Travel Like a Bawse Bills to Boarding Passes FREE masterclass Instagram Want More? How to Win at Travel with “The Points Guy” Brian Kelly Seizing Your Opportunity to Travel, Saving Money as a Solo Traveler, Lessons from a Career Break, and How to Figure Out What You Want (In 60 Seconds) with Leslie McKellar 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Abroad (Or Traveling Long-Term) with Chrishan Wright Thanks To Our Sponsors Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places with Atlas Obscura Podcast Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you experience the Louvre Museum in a way that actually feels enjoyable, not stressful? And what makes this museum so much more than the Mona Lisa? Elaine Sciolino is a veteran journalist and author, former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, and the writer of several books about France, including The Seine, The Only Street in Paris, and Adventures in the Louvre. She has lived in Paris for over two decades and brings history, culture, and personal insight into every story. Elaine joins co-host Paige McClanahan to explore Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum, diving into the history, hidden artworks, and practical strategies for making the most of your visit. You’ll hear why the Louvre is more than just a building with the Mona Lisa and how its role in French history makes it extraordinary. Elaine demystifies visiting the museum, from understanding crowds and lines to discovering lesser-known works like Titian’s Man With a Glove and what she calls the “undiscovered Mona Lisa.” She shares crowd-beating strategies, best days and times to visit, and surprising places within and around the Louvre where peace and beauty await. You’ll get insider stories on heists, hidden collections, and how even children can be captivated by Egyptology and Islamic art sections that most tourists miss out on. When you visit a major museum like the Louvre, do you tend to focus on the most famous works, or do you prefer to explore what’s less obvious? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Co-host Paige McClanahan is a writer, editor, and former journalist based in Paris, France. As the author of “The New Tourist: Waking up to the Power and Perils of Travel”, Paige is passionate about making sure our travels have a positive impact on the world. Learn more about her work here. Tune In To Learn: How the Mona Lisa came to dominate the Louvre’s identity, and why that fame is both a blessing and a burden How the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa helped turn her into a worldwide obsession The surprising historical roots of the Louvre as a royal palace and revolutionary museum Lesser-known treasures, “undiscovered” masterpieces, and quieter sections of the Louvre worth seeking out The unexpected history of France’s crown jewels, including how many were sold off and ended up in the United States The story behind the recent crown jewels heist and what it reveals about museum security How the right membership, 1:1 consultation rooms, and alternative museums can transform your experience of Parisian culture Future plans for the Louvre’s expansion and what that could mean And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Elaine’s website and books Louvre Museum Want More? 5 Unexpected Things to Do in Paris and 3 Hidden Gems in France with Paige McClanahan How To Explore Paris Like a Local, Working on Hospital Ships, and Becoming an Expat on a Mystery Visa With Jay Swanson 9 Best United States Museums and Advice for Fostering Your Creativity with Bob Eckstein Thanks To Our Sponsors Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places on the Atlas Obscura Podcast Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the best hidden gems and local experiences in Ljubljana, Slovenia, that some travelers completely miss? Sharon Kaufman is a licensed local guide in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and founder of MyLjubljanaTour.com. Originally from Israel, she moved to Slovenia with her family on what was meant to be a one-week vacation and ended up building a new life there. Today, she leads free and paid tours focused on helping travelers experience Ljubljana through local stories, food, and everyday culture. In this episode, Sharon shares about her spontaneous family move to Ljubljana, how she built a life and business there, and her top hidden gems and local tips for experiencing the city like a resident, not a tourist. If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia or curious about what makes Ljubljana special, this episode is packed with practical recommendations. Sharon walks us through lesser-known places to explore, affordable ways to get around, unique food experiences, art districts, scenic viewpoints, and easy nature escapes right from the city. You’ll also hear how her perspective as a local guide shapes the way she helps travelers connect more deeply with the city. Which of these Ljubljana, Slovenia, experiences would you want to explore first? I'd love to hear what they are, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How a one-week family vacation unexpectedly turned into a move to Slovenia What Sharon quickly learned about daily life, culture, and work-life balance in Ljubljana How intuition and local conversations shaped her decision to stay How she transitioned from online coaching to becoming a licensed local guide One of the most affordable and fun ways to explore the city Where to get sweeping views of Ljubljana without crowds or ticket lines A hidden market area with local food and unique vending machines that most visitors walk right past A hidden alley filled with public art, symbolism, and a secret pub An alternative art district shaped by activism, creativity, and nightlife A cafe locals love for great coffee, healthy food, and a relaxed vibe An easy forest hike just minutes from the city center, plus what to eat at the top The best times of year to visit Ljubljana and where to go beyond the city And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter MyLjubljanaTour.com Want More? Top 10 Iceland Hidden Gems (Highlands, Hot Springs, and Hidden Canyons) + Building a New Life Abroad with Jewells Chambers from All Things Iceland 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Abroad (Or Traveling Long-Term) with Chrishan Wright Top 10 Reasons to Love Living Abroad with Botik Quest Thanks To Our Sponsors Listen to the Planet Visionaries podcast on Apple and Spotify Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places on the Atlas Obscura Podcast Go to https://surfshark.com/zerototravel or use code ZEROTOTRAVEL at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kim Frank is an award‑winning writer, multimedia storyteller, and explorer whose work has appeared in The Explorers Journal, Sidetracked, and Earth Island Journal. She is a Fellow of The Explorers Club and the Royal Geographical Society. Kim’s latest book, Elephants in the Hourglass: A Journey of Reckoning and Hope Along the Himalaya, reflects her deep engagement with the human elephant conflict in northeastern India. In this episode, Kim joins me to talk about her personal and professional evolution from mom and fiction writer to author and storyteller, tackling one of the world’s lesser‑known environmental crises: the human‑elephant conflict. This conversation moves beyond travel storytelling to explore deep themes of identity, fear, and the bravery required to act. Kim shares how she navigated self‑doubt, embraced vulnerability, and found strength through community. Listeners will gain insight into the realities of conservation work, especially the nuanced human‑elephant relationship in the Eastern Himalaya. You’ll also learn how storytelling and openness can bridge cultural gaps and inspire action for coexistence. Specific personal stories, like balancing motherhood with fieldwork, and philosophical reflections on the space between are woven throughout. What’s one fear you’re holding that might be the gateway to your next big chapter, and how might acknowledging two truths about it help you move forward? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How Kim’s childhood and family travels shaped her perspective on exploration and meaning Why Elephants in the Hourglass became both a conservation story and personal memoir What Kim learned about fear, confidence, and taking action in big life transitions The role of mentorship and community in pursuing meaningful work How cultural assumptions about motherhood impacted Kim’s work and identity What the space between means and why it matters in our relationship to nature The complexity of human‑elephant conflict and why simple narratives fall short How language and framing influence conservation and public perception Why holding opposing truths is essential to peaceful coexistence Practical takeaways on curiosity, empathy, and openness in travel and life And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Kim’s website Instagram Elephants in the Hourglass Wildlife Trust of India Want More? Living in Ecuador, Indigenous Communities, Rainforest Conservation, and Cultural Experiences With Photographer Mark Fox 100 Documentaries Project: Traveling the Globe to Find Extraordinary Humans + Changing the World One Story at a Time with Robin Danehav Myanmar’s Secret Railways: Uncovering Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Oppression with Clare Hammond Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Atlas Obscura Podcast - Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you let curiosity guide your travel experiences? John McKenzie is a long-time traveler and curious explorer who shares stories and insights from off-the-beaten-track destinations around the world. Through his content and curated CuriosiTrips, he aims to expand others’ sense of what’s possible by encouraging a more curious, open approach to travel. He’s also a new contributor to National Geographic, writing the sections on Djibouti, Eritrea, and Somalia for The Traveler’s Atlas of the World. In this episode, John and I sit down in person to explore the concept of curiosity as a travel compass, why some destinations gain reputations that don’t match reality, and how community and mindset shape meaningful journeys. Travel is often framed around checklists and highlights, but John reframes it as a curiosity‑driven practice that enriches both travel and everyday life. You’ll hear how to exercise your curiosity muscle, embrace spontaneity, and responsibly explore destinations often overlooked or misunderstood. From challenging trips like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Syria to cultural discoveries and approachable recommendations like Malawi and Cuba, this conversation offers both a practical perspective and philosophical encouragement for travelers of all experience levels. What is one place you’ve always been curious about but haven’t yet visited, and what’s holding you back? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How boredom and routine kick-started John’s curiosity and exploration What approaching travel with openness rather than rigidity can uncover Why connecting with others who’ve done what you want to do helps normalize the goal How travel to “dangerous” or misunderstood places can be both safe and rewarding The mindset shift from chasing destinations to pursuing meaningful experiences How John defines “meaningful” in his own travel, and why that matters more than ticking boxes Examples of destinations that surprised him and recommendations for your own curious travels And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter John’s website Instagram National Geographic Traveler’s Atlas of the World Extraordinary Travel Festival Want More? 7 Pro Tips For Traveling In Dangerous Countries w/ Bjorn Palsson Independent Travel as a Female in Afghanistan, Hitchhiking Iraq, and Ex-Pat Life in Sudan with Jacquelyn Kunz The World’s Most Traveled Person on the Ethics of Gamifying Travel, Best Regions in the World, and Why To Keep Traveling With Harry Mitsidis of NomadMania Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Atlas Obscura Podcast - Experience an audio guide to the world's strange, incredible, and wondrous places Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does queer travel in the US look like beyond the big cities? And what can all travelers learn from the LGBTQ+ travel experience? Chase Vondran is a full-time travel creator and writer based in Chicago who helps transgender and gender-diverse travelers explore safely while advocating for greater inclusion in the travel industry. After an eight-year nomadic journey spanning 20+ countries, they now focus their work on queer travel, small queer towns, and inclusive travel guides. In this episode, co-host Dianni Hall sits down with Chase to talk about queer travel in the U.S., exploring small queer towns and gayberhoods, and understanding the realities and joys of traveling as a trans person. This episode offers a rare glimpse into queer communities thriving outside of major cities and highlights unexpected destinations where queer people not only exist but also flourish. Chase shares personal stories from their travels as a trans person, the differences in how the world treats them before and after transition, and what travelers should consider when seeking inclusive spaces. You’ll discover resources, tips for finding queer communities, and the emotional power of feeling seen. Whether you’re a queer traveler, an ally, or curious about inclusive travel, this conversation expands how we think about travel, identity, and belonging. How has travel helped you better understand experiences different from your own? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Zero To Travel co-host Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, and host of the While She’s Away podcast. Learn more about her work here. Tune In To Learn: How travel gave Chase space to explore queerness and identity away from home What it feels like to find queer community for the first time while traveling Why places like Puerto Vallarta have become historic hubs for queer travelers How the absence of visible queer community can change a travel experience How queer history, artist communities, and other factors have helped shape small inclusive towns across the U.S. Why destinations like Saugatuck, Michigan and Eureka Springs, Arkansas defy expectations How Chase’s travel experiences shifted after coming out as trans and What safety, visibility, and respect look like when traveling as a trans person and how it differs from traveling as a woman Why small, community-driven queer spaces matter just as much as big cities How to find queer community anywhere using apps, events, and local businesses And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Dianni on Instagram Chase on Instagram Everywhere Is Queer Quouch Want More? Choosing a One-Way Ticket Over a Master’s Degree + Lessons From 6 Years of Evolving Travel with Dianni Hall Top 7 Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers and Finding Your People Around the World with LGBTQ+ Travel Expert Alicia Valenski LGBTQ+ Travel and Making A Difference with Ravi Roth Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it look like when travel becomes more than just a trip, but a lifelong evolution of identity, choices, and community? Dianni Hall is a queer, second-generation Latina, solo budget backpacker, podcaster, and podcast producer. She’s the host of While She’s Away, a podcast highlighting stories and advice from women travelers around the world. After choosing a one-way flight to India instead of enrolling in graduate school, Dianni spent six years traveling full-time across 30+ countries while building a freelance career and exploring what it means to find home. In this episode, we explore how Dianni’s travel lifestyle has changed over time, from solo backpacking and volunteering abroad to building a freelance career and eventually settling into a home base in Brooklyn. Dianni shares specific lessons from various phases of travel, including navigating her first solo trip, volunteering in an ashram, adjusting to slow travel, and balancing travel with long-term stability. She offers honest reflections on managing anxiety while traveling, the importance of community, and what it means to reimagine one's identity when traveling full-time comes to an end. What’s one travel experience, big or small, that changed the way you see the world, and how did it shape who you are today? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How religious/spiritual curiosity shaped her decision to go to India What she learned from living and volunteering at an ashram What it felt like to “accidentally” become a full-time nomad and how teaching English in Spain opened doors to long-term travel and career growth Advice for navigating anxiety before and during travel, and how reframing your inner dialogue can make all the difference What solo travel taught her about confidence, community, and intuition The difference between feeling “at home” somewhere and choosing to build a life there Why returning to familiar places revealed a deeper need for belonging and community What drew her to Brooklyn, and how queer community became a central part of her rooted life And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter While She’s Away Podcast Dianni on Instagram Bar Lunatico Boyfriend Co-Op Want More? Solo Traveling Europe and “The Stans” in a Campervan with Maria Glaser Joys of Solo Travel with Manjinder Kang Seizing Your Opportunity to Travel, Saving Money as a Solo Traveler, Lessons from a Career Break, and How to Figure Out What You Want (In 60 Seconds) with Leslie McKellar Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the top travel destinations for 2026 that need to be on your radar? Lyn Hughes is the founding editor of Wanderlust Magazine and a leading voice in adventure and cultural travel journalism. She’s spent decades curating destination guides, championing responsible travel, and sharing stories that inspire deeper exploration. I catch up with Lyn to explore her curated list of the best places to travel in 2026 and why you should prioritize these destinations for the new year or near future. Lyn shares standout destinations including remote wilderness routes, under‑the‑radar cultural hubs, and wildlife-rich regions. She shares personal stories, explains why there is urgency around some of these locations, and gives insight into how we can engage more meaningfully and responsibly when we visit. If you're thinking ahead to your next big trip, this episode offers thoughtful guidance and some surprising ideas. Which types of destinations spark your imagination right now? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Wanderlust creates future‑looking destination lists and how they’re curated How to balance adventure, accessibility, and sustainability in trip planning Advice for travelers seeking lesser‑known but rewarding places What Lyn looks for in a truly special travel experience How one rugged road trip remains one of her all‑time favorites Why wildlife travel can reshape how we see the world How curated content and AI might impact your next travel search What role community‑based tourism is playing in new travel trends Personal travel picks from a legendary travel editor And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Wanderlust Magazine Wanderlust: Off the Page podcast on Apple, Spotify Want More? Top 7 Travel Trends for 2025 with Lyn Hughes Top 10 Places We’re Dying To Visit That We’ve Never Been 14 Best of “The Best Places to Travel in 2025” (Jason’s Picks) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tune in for a quick update on what's to come on the Zero To Travel podcast in 2026! Happy New Year, my friend. Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My wife, Anne-Dorthe, and I are together on the pod to share all about Christmas traditions in Norway and the United States. You'll hear what it's like to taste Julebrus for the first time, see who will win the theoretical battle between Santa Claus and Julenisse, discover the three main traditional dishes in different parts of Norway, get a special Norwegian treat from my wife, and so much more! Can you appreciate your traditions as if you were a traveler seeing and experiencing them for the first time? Have a wonderful Holiday wherever you are, my friend! *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. What are your Holiday traditions? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Resources: Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Thanks To Our Sponsors Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking for more creative and fun ways to reflect on your year and plan for the next one? Join Caitlin and Janessa in this year-end Remote Roundup to explore personal reflections, unexpected lessons, goal-setting alternatives, and favorite travel moments from 2025. Remote Roundup is a monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel’s associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need‑to‑know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world. Caitlin and Janessa talk about identity, growth, community, habits, and how their remote lives are evolving as they plan for the new year. You'll walk away with insights and practical ideas for reflecting on your own year and setting more intentional goals, whether you're traveling full-time, working remotely, or simply ready for a reset in 2026. What’s a moment from your 2025 that made you feel most yourself? We’d love to hear about it, and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The top Zero To Travel episodes for 2025 and why they’re worth a re-listen 5 non-cliche reflection questions to look back on your year with more depth Alternative intention-setting ideas for 2026 that go beyond resolutions and “word of the year” trends What the “new place, new me” trap is and how it can quietly derail goals for travelers Fun travel superlatives from their year, from best coffee culture and unexpected destinations to top meals and views And much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Caitlin on Instagram Janessa on Instagram Want More? 14 Best of “The Best Places to Travel in 2025” (Jason’s Picks) Top 10 Reasons to Love Living Abroad with Botik Quest The 5 Best Hacks of “All the Hacks”: Travel, Money & Life Optimization with Chris Hutchins How to Navigate Transitions and Design Your Life (Without the BS) with Lauren Handel Zander Profiling Every UN Nation (In Alphabetical Order), Travel through Geography, Lessons from 10 Years of YouTube Success with Paul Barbato of Geography Now Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you step out of your life for a year to live, work, and connect in a completely different culture? Don Jenkins is a 27-year high-school teacher from Washington state who spent a full academic year in Norway through the Fulbright Roving Scholar Program. Based in Oslo but constantly on the move, he traveled the country visiting schools and giving workshops on American history and government, reaching thousands of students along the way. This episode explores Don’s journey as a cultural ambassador, educator, and traveler. We talk about the surprising differences between Norwegian and American school systems, how living abroad shifts your view of home, and what it takes to build connection across cultures - whether you’re in a classroom, a sauna, or a sawed-off tuk tuk. Whether or not you’re a teacher, Don’s experience is full of lessons on curiosity, communication, and how to embrace the unfamiliar. From practical travel tips to deeper reflections on history, education, and societal values, this episode is a reminder of how much growth comes from stepping outside your bubble. What’s one lesson you’ve picked up while traveling that changed how you see your home? I'd love to hear about your experience, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Don took a sabbatical to teach abroad in Norway for a year How his “roving teacher” job works and the logistics of living in Oslo while visiting 30+ schools Surprising insights about Norwegian classrooms, school culture, and community values How to implement cultural lessons at home, even if you’re not a teacher What it means to be a “mini ambassador” and have real conversations about your home country Budget-friendly tips for traveling in Norway, including food hacks and local apps The role of curiosity in building connections while traveling Why honest history matters, and what happens when we don’t teach the full story How being away from family for so long can be hard and insight on managing travel fears And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Don on Instagram American-Scandinavian Foundation Fulbright Roving Scholars Too Good To Go App Want More? Cracking the Cultural Code, Ethical Travel To Indigenous Areas, & Life in Norway With Lorelou Desjardins Hidden Norway: 7 Off The Beaten Path Gems You’ll Love, Popular Norwegian Concepts Worth Stealing, Trekking In Bhutan, & Living At The Crossroads of Magic & Science w/ Torunn Tronsvang from Up Norway Walking the World: A Deeper Exploration of Culture and Community with Chris Arnade Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Which European dish is so good you’d plan a trip around it? Kenny Dunn is the founder of Eating Europe, a food tour company that has guided over 400,000 travelers to the best local eats in 17 of Europe’s greatest cities since 2011. In this episode, Kenny shares 11 European dishes you must try before you die, including cultural context, restaurant tips, and personal stories from his years of travel. Kenny explains how each dish connects to its place and people, how everyday locals enjoy them, and shares his go-to spots for trying them. To add a little flavor, we also pair each dish with a movie or TV show to turn your meal into an experience if you want to make these at home! Which dish would you travel for or try to recreate at home? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The famous British snack that was originally invented as a travel food How a Spanish street food became a spicy, deep-fried bomb of flavor The story behind a French sandwich that inspired a monster version in Portugal How one Roman specialty turns a humble vegetable into something unforgettable Where to find the prettiest open-faced sandwich in Scandinavia The sandwich Anthony Bourdain called “a monument to excess” How a single dish became the pride of Prague’s holiday tables What to expect when you try Florence’s most local sandwich Why a herring might be best enjoyed standing up in Amsterdam Tips for cooking a few of these at home (and when not to bother) And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Eating Europe Eating Europe on Instagram Want More? Top 8 Food Hacks in Europe: How to Find Authentic Culinary Experiences on the Old Continent with Kenny Dunn Top 10 European Food Experiences With Kenny Dunn From Eating Europe Sicily Uncovered: Street Food, Wine Regions, and the Art of Slowing Down Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you choose where to live, what to do, and when to go home when your life is fully remote? Remote Roundup is a monthly series hosted by Zero To Travel’s associate producer, Caitlin Sunderland, and partnerships manager, Janessa Klatt. Explore what's new in remote work and travel, including helpful tools and resources, need‑to‑know trends, destinations, and insight into what it really means to live and work around the world. In this episode, they’re reporting in from two wildly different corners of the world with stories, struggles, and insights about what it actually looks like to live and work abroad right now, plus a practical holiday wish list. Caitlin and Janessa open up about the hard choices digital nomads face around holidays, family, and missing big life events. They talk about the growing trend of unexpected remote careers and explore how people are adapting traditional jobs to fit this lifestyle, a conversation about the myth of the laptop-on-the-beach image that won't die, and more. What has been your biggest struggle being away from home when you travel? We’d love to hear about it, and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why Bangkok’s scale, café culture, and mall scene work so well for remote living How Oaxaca brings together community, creativity, and tradition, especially around Day of the Dead How Caitlin pulled off a cheap(ish) last-minute flight to Asia with an airport transfer hack What it’s really like to grieve major life moments from abroad, and insight into deciding when going home makes sense Thoughts on how to take traditional skills and repurpose them into location-independent careers An honest take on the “laptop on the beach” stereotype (and why it’s still everywhere) A holiday gift guide with digital nomads in mind Two travel fail stories that involve passports, bowel movements, and a nearly missed bus in the Italian countryside And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Caitlin on Instagram Janessa on Instagram Want More? Remote Roundup: True Costs of Long-Term Travel, Taxes & Borderless Living, an Underrated Productivity Habit, + More (October 2025) Building a Travel Lifestyle: Digital Nomadism, Slow Travel, Exploring Latin America with Kyle Cohenour From Expat to Digital Nomad: Finding Your Travel Rhythm, Balancing Burnout, and the Digital Nomad Lifestyle with Kristin Wilson Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the most difficult countries to visit, and why do some require months of effort just to get in? Gunnar Garfors is an author, journalist, and the first person to travel to every country in the world twice. Jacqui Kunz was named “World’s Most Intrepid Traveler” in 2023 and is also well on her way to visiting every country in the world. In this Zero To Travel Host Collective episode, Gunnar and Jacqui go through ten of the world’s most difficult countries to visit from a visa and access standpoint. Gunnar and Jacqui share their personal experiences and insights navigating the world’s hardest-to-enter countries, especially from the perspective of American and Norwegian passports. You’ll learn not just where the access is difficult, but why - whether it’s politics, reciprocity, red tape, or safety concerns - and what it says about global mobility. They also explore the ethical side of “ticking countries off the list” and how that mindset can warp the meaning of travel. If you were to visit one country that you know is extremely hard to get into, which country would it be and why? We’d love to hear about it, and hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why your passport dramatically affects your ability to visit certain countries How political tensions between nations influence visa rules and travel bans Advice for Americans trying to enter countries that officially don’t allow them Why some countries like Turkmenistan or Libya require government approval before you can even apply What Gunnar did after being rejected six times for a visa to Turkmenistan How Jackie’s educational work raised red flags with the Iranian authorities How to travel ethically to countries with problematic governments or ongoing conflicts Tips for minimizing risk and maximizing cultural exchange in restricted destinations What it really means to have “been” somewhere (and who gets to decide that) And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Gunnar’s website Gunnar on Instagram Jacqui on Instagram Want More? Independent Travel as a Female in Afghanistan, Hitchhiking Iraq, and Ex-Pat Life in Sudan with Jacquelyn Kunz How To Get Off The Beaten Track with Gunnar Garfors Traveling the Equator and Polar Circle (Top 5 Countries to Visit) + How Climate Change Impacts Locals with Gunnar Garfors Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

IMPORTANT: This episode was recorded before the conflict in Sudan, and Jacqui has since left the country. For additional information and ways to support the Sudanese people, you can visit eyesonsudan.net and follow Jacqui on Instagram. Why would someone choose to travel to the world’s most dangerous places? Today I’m joined by Jacquelyn Kunz, the first female to travel independently through Afghanistan after the Taliban regained control. In this episode, Jacqui shares some of the toughest moments from her time in Afghanistan, what led her to move to Sudan, and her life as an expat. We also talk about what it was like to hitchhike in Iraq and how these experiences have shifted her outlook on life. *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. Do you consider yourself a risk-taker? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you will share them by sending me an audio message. Tune in to Learn: What Jacqui considers the ultimate traveler fantasy Her favorite places to visit and what attracts her to more extreme foreign destinations Insight into the experience of being a woman in Sudan How Government censorship and surveillance impact a society Why Jacqui chose to move to Sudan (and her family's reaction) Life in Sudan with political instability, and how she fits into society Why a foreign woman is considered an "honorary man," and how this impacts her relationship with Sudanese women How these experiences changed her perspective on life and relating to others Insight into finding the courage to take a different path Jacqui's best advice for safety and her thoughts on being a risk-taker And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Learn more about the conflict in Sudan Connect with Jacqui on Instagram Listen to Laundry House on Spotify and follow us on Instagram Want More? 7 Pro Tips For Traveling In Dangerous Countries w/ Bjorn Palsson Travel In The Middle East with Genevieve Hathaway What Is “Happiness”? Discovering Meaning On The Silk Road w/ Will Rickard Thanks to our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really take to build a travel lifestyle from scratch, especially if you’re starting later in life or managing a serious medical condition? Jason Robinson is the founder of The Nomad Experiment and author of The Beginner Traveler’s Guide. After digging out of debt and selling his home, he now travels full-time while living with type 1 diabetes. Jason joins me to explore his updated beginner travel guide, how the nomad lifestyle has become his way of life, and how we can all learn to travel more intentionally, even when the path to getting started looks different for everyone. This episode is packed with real talk and actionable advice for anyone looking to start or deepen a travel-centered lifestyle. Jason shares the exact mindset shifts and tactical steps that helped him go from zero international travel to spending more than half the year abroad. You’ll learn why co-living can be a better fit than hostels, how to realistically assess your finances before you leap, and what it takes to travel while managing something as serious as type-1 diabetes. We also get into the harder stuff - burnout, identity, letting go of expectations -and why treating travel like an experiment may be the most freeing approach of all. What’s one small step you can take this month toward your travel‑oriented life? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: Why getting your passport is the easiest first move toward travel How to start travelling from exactly where you are (not waiting for “perfect”) Why choosing the right accommodation style (hostel vs co‑living) matters for long‑term travel How to build a financial base that supports a travel lifestyle—not traps you The conversation you need to have with friends or family about your priorities How to recognise and navigate travel burnout or lifestyle shifts Mindset tips for travelling with a medical condition, or any “extra” in your life Where Jason wants to go back (and why slower travel matters) How to frame your worst‑case/best‑case list so fear doesn’t hold you back The one mindset change that turns travel planning into travel living And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Jason on Instagram The Nomad Experiment Type 1 Diabetes Travel Learn to Travel Basics Want More? Going Nomad With Jason Robinson Life As An Experiment w/ Jason Robinson Rock Bottom To A Life of Travel w/ Francis Nayan Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Need some inspiration for your upcoming travels? Gunnar Garfors is the first person to travel to every country in the world not once, but TWICE. As the ultimate travel expert, he’s with us to share his list of the best places to visit before they get too popular. You’ll hear about seven out-of-the-ordinary destinations spanning all seven continents to help you plan for the coming year and beyond. Whether it’s beach life, mountain hikes, big cities, or relaxing getaways, there’s something on the list for everyone. We’ll also talk about his upcoming project, share plenty of stories, and he’ll let us in on a fun travel concept you’ll want to steal and use with your friends. *This is a previously released episode from the archives! Zero To Travel interviews are timeless, offering valuable insight whenever you listen. Where are you headed first? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Tune In To Learn: The ROI of travel and why you should explore out-of-the-box destinations What makes this overlooked part of this Caribbean island worth a visit How to have an authentic South American river adventure An African country ideal for extreme sports and coastal wildlife The vastly underestimated European country that has something for everyone A fun way to plan trips with your friends (You’ll want to steal this!) An affordable, diverse, and mountainous country along the Old Silk Road An underestimated Asian country rich in culture, innovation, and amazing food (It’s his favorite big city in the world!) A small but incredible Pacific island kingdom for an alternative to Fiji His bonus destination for an affordable Maldives experience Gunnar’s new book and his thoughts on climate change And so much more Resources: Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Visit Gunnar’s website Follow him on Instagram and TikTok Listen to his podcast Want More? Visiting Every County In The World…TWICE! With Gunnar Garfors How To Get Off The Beaten Track with Gunnar Garfors Part One: The First Person to Travel to Every Country Without Flying (In a Single Journey) With Thor Pedersen Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is night train travel making a comeback? Trains have long been seen as a romantic or nostalgic way to explore a destination, but what if it could also be the most practical, comfortable, and climate-friendly way? Thibault Constant is a French train enthusiast turned entrepreneur who built a following of 300k on his YouTube channel, Simply Railways. He’s the author of Trains de Nuit and co-founder of Nox, a new sleeper train company aiming to revolutionize overnight travel across Europe with affordable private rooms. In this episode, host Paige McClanahan speaks with Thibault about the rising demand for night trains in Europe, the design and mission behind his upcoming sleeper train company, and why privacy, practicality, and sustainability are reshaping how we move through the world. You’ll hear why a new wave of travelers are choosing overnight rail, how the travel experience shifts when you’re able to rest, reflect, and arrive ready to go, and what it takes to build a better sleeper train from the ground up. Thibault shares the key barriers that have kept night trains from breaking through in recent decades, and how his company, Nox, is working to overcome them with smart design and realistic pricing. Whether you’re curious about slow travel, concerned about flying’s climate impact, or just want to know what it’s like to wake up in Sicily after sleeping on a train ferry, this episode offers both practical insights and pure travel inspiration. If you could take one of Thibault’s recommended overnight train journeys tomorrow, which would you choose and why? We’d love to hear your thoughts, and hope you’ll share by sending an audio message. Tune In To Learn: How growing up in northern France inspired Thibault’s lifelong love of trains Why he started his YouTube channel, and how it became a full-time job What led him to co-found Nox, a new sleeper train company launching in 2027 Why most night trains today fail to deliver on sleep, and how privacy changes everything The real reason night trains declined in Europe, and what brought them back How the climate crisis is pushing more travelers to rethink short-haul flights What makes overnight train travel a win–win for comfort, convenience, and carbon Thibault’s top 3 night train routes in Europe, and his favorite long-haul ride in North America And so much more Resources: Sign up for our FREE newsletter Paige McClanahan’s website Paige on Instagram Thibault on Instagram Simply Railway YouTube Trains de Nuit Nox Sleeper Trains Want More? Sustainable Travel 101 (How to Be A Better Traveler) With Richard Hammond Train Travel Around The World w/ Mark Smith World Tour for Climate Change: Hitchhiking, Biking, and Low-Carbon Travel With Megan Routbort Thanks To Our Sponsors Holafly⁠ - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL” Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order. Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Planet Visionaries - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices