Andy Steves Travel Podcast

Tune into this episode between travel entrepreneurs discussing how to find a market need, developing a product or service to answer those needs and how one can set about to tackle these big and important projects. Travel entrepreneur and social media influencer, Ryan Thorpe joins Andy Steves to share about he juggled getting a travel website off the ground and even monetizing it while simultaneously cramming for school exams to pass his university classes.References in the episode:The Student Nomad Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thestudentnomad/The Student Nomad Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thestudentnomad/?hl=enRevolut Digital Banking: https://www.revolut.com/en-US/

This episode is another off-the-beaten path story—International pro cage fighter, memoir author and digital nomad, Rollie Peterkin is on the show today to share about his story joining a stable of mixed martial arts fighters in Lima Peru. Tune in to listen to how Rollie broke himself out of the 9-5 routine as a trader in New York City, and took the decision to shake up his life and head south of the border. His inspirational story is packed with interesting anecdotes and practical tips which I hope you enjoy! References in the episode: Rollie’s website: http://www.rolliepeterkin.com/Rollie’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Cage-Escaping-American-Dream/dp/1514294206Read more: https://www.flowrestling.org/articles/5051012-rollie-peterkin-from-wall-street-to-the-cageRollie’s Insta: https://www.instagram.com/rolliepeterkin/

Emmy award winning TV Journalist by day travel vlogger by night, Tinabeth Pina posts a host of resources and insights for study abroad students, prospective international travelers and those curious about other cultures on her youtube channel, Tell Me Tina. While she got her start as a bi-lingual latin music radio host, she now focuses on producing dozens of fascinating and practical travel videos. Andy and Tinabeth Pina share tips on travel hacks, and how to use corporate marketing for things like flights and cruises to your benefit. She's getting her new resource off the ground, so be sure to look her up at tinabethtravels.com. References in the episode:Check out Tina Beth's Globe Scholars and travel tips here:https://www.youtube.com/user/tbpusa/videos Kayak.comMatrix.itasoftware.comSkyscanner.netKiwi.comCheapoair.com

Marine Sergeant Julian Ponce joins me today to talk about life in the Marine Corps and how it's helped him see the world. Sgt. Ponce takes us on a tour of the American Embassy in Budapest, and we discuss the deep camaraderie between fellow marines. And then we digress to chat a bit about Colombian and Latino culture as well--I've lived here in Medellin when not traveling in Europe and I'm working on my Spanish and Salsa skills. I can't help bringing it up with a Colombian-American. References in the episode: Go caving underneath Budapest - caving.hu

Royal baby mania, trendy London, key sights and tips to get off the beaten path--Leo Heaton, a professional Blue Badge guide shares all about it today on this episode of Andy Steves' Travel Podcast. Leo reveals just a few of the many reasons that make London such an incredible, modern and diverse city. Don’t forget the speak-easy’s and the cocktail clubs!References in the episode:Instagram: @Little_London_LionTwitter: @LeoHeatonGuide profile: guidelondon.org.uk/guides/leonieheatonGuide profile 2: britainsbestguides.org/guides/leo-heatonSome of Brick Lane's best Indian food: city-spice.londonCocktail bar NightJar: oriolebar.comAnd the sister, Oriole Bar: oriolebar.comVice Documentary on London's #1 rated restaurant: youtube.com/watch?v=bqPARIKHbN8Check out Andy's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Andy-Steves-Europe-City-Hopping-Budget/dp/1631217968

Listen in on this fascinating conversation between two travel entrepreneurs. Today, I have social media influencer, Carmina of LaCarmina.com on the show to talk about her style of travel--goth, subcultures, body mods, alternative fashion and more. She runs a website packed with information and tips for those looking for off-beat travel experiences. Carmina has collaborated on travel TV with ABC, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Andrew Zimmern and Anthony Bourdain (RIP). Our conversation ranges from Tokyo’s disciplinary Maid bars where you get slapped for misbehaving, to goth travel culture and pioneering space tourism. References in the episode: Carmina's Website: lacarmina.com Carmina's Instagram @lacarmina Read up on how LaCarmina saw a man getting his mouth sewn shut: http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/2012/07/prague-castle-goth-clubs-alternative-travel-tips-cross-club-steampunk-bar-st-vitus-cathedral-hell-club/

A good friend of mine, father and family man, Kamal Mukarkar calls in on this episode to share about his life and experience growing up as a Christian Palestinian (making up about 1% of the population of the West Bank and Gaza Strip) in Bethlehem. A student of history and the bible, Kamal is passionate about sharing where they intersect in Palestine's West Bank. Kamal is a tour guide showing dozens of tourists around his home town and throughout the West Bank each year. And later in the episode, Kamal and I discuss the best itinerary for a visit to Israel and Palestine. Don't miss the best part of the episode where Kamal reveals some surprising real-life aspects of the Nativity scene and story given the culture--how it actually would have occured occuring to Jewish culture, and he contrasts that with St. Francis' version of the story dating from the 13th century which we are used to today (not based in historical Jewish tradition at all actually). References in the episode: See Kamal on Rick Steves' Holy Land Special at https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/video/tv-show/tv-specials/holy-land Check out cheap flights to Tel Aviv via WizzAir at wizzair.com Contact Kamal for tours and advice for your next visit: kamal_mukarker@hotmail.com

My local guide friend, Jody van Engelsdorp Gastellars joins me in this episode to share a bit about Dutch culture, history, and international foodie treats. With a degree in microbiology, Jody has an unlikely background for a tour guide, so I was sure to have her share how she made the bridge from Biology studies at university to leading tours for Rick Steves Europe all around the continent. We discuss King's Day, Amsterdam's biggest festival of the year and since the Netherlands is an expensive country, I grill Jody on some budget tips so we can enjoy the best of Amsterdam's sights, nightlife and activities on a budget.References in the episode: Neighborhoods Jordaan - Affordable neighborhood to stay in Amsterdam Albert Cuyp Market - Authentic daily flea market De Pijpe - Amsterdam's up and coming trendy neighborhood Typical Snacks & Treats Stroopwaffles - Syrup waffle cookies Poffertjies - mini pancakes Febo - coin-operated fast food joint Haring - Dutch power lunch of raw fish Dutch cheese Bitterballen - steamy-hot fried ball of mashed potatoes and ground meat Top Sights Anne Frank - annefrank.org/en/ Van Gogh Museum - vangoghmuseum.nl/en Rijksmuseum - rijksmuseum.nl Heineken Experience - heineken.com/heineken-experience Begijnhof - Check out the listing in my guidebook Links: @jodyengelsdorp

The Offbeat LifeTravel entrepreneur, podcast host and social media influencer, Debbie Arcangeles joins Andy to talk about smart travel--how to stay fit and effective on the road. Debbie is a 1st generation immigrant from the Phillipines and now lives in New York City, working as an ADA nurse for patients with autism. In this episode, Debbie shares her tips on how to leverage today's tech tools to make real-life friends and connections.Check out Debbie's amazing content here:TheOffbeatLife.comInstagram @offbeattrekkerPodcast iTunes: theoffbeatlifePodcast Instagram: @theoffbeatlifeFacebook: facebook.com/TheOBLifeWebsite: TheOffbeatLife.com Subscribe on iTunes

S2 E1 - BUDAPEST for Rogues with Smike LetwinskySmike the Party Godfather of Budapest makes his second appearance on AST, and he outdoes himself once more! I can't stop cracking up while catching up with him about his latest projects--from hostels to bars to bands and podcasts. We also get into sex and nightlife etiquette for today's backpacker. We also share our insights on how to make sure your phone is a tool and not a social blocker while traveling in Europe.References in the episode:- Smike's Instagram - @smike1981- Smike's Podcasts - thehostelguys.podbean.com and later "The Abstract Backpack"- Retox Party Hostel - @retoxpartyhostel- One of Retox's epic Jagertrain: youtube.com/watch?v=L5SwlurVJVo- Budapest Party Hostel Network: budapestpartyhostels.com- 10 Sixty-Six - facebook.com/10sixtysixbudapest, 10_sixtysix_- Edison Ink & Bar - edisonbudapest.com- Budapest Party Bookers - partybookersbudapest.comPick up Andy’s guidebook, Andy Steves’ Europe: City-Hopping on a Budget where he features the Budapest Party Hostels along with tons of other recommendations.And as always, we’d LOVE your 5-star review on iTunes to share the positive travel vibes. :)

Episode InfoAt long last, the Andy Steves Travel Podcast is on it’s way back and we’ve got some incredible guests in the line up this season. Thanks to everyone who has subscribed, shared and rated our podcast already. We’ve got a great traveling community growing around this show, and we want you involved! This season, we’re spanning continents, time periods, subjects and more as we drop all sorts of travel hacks and nuggets into your earbuds.Just a taste of what’s coming up this season:- Smike Letwinsky shares his take on Budapest today and the modern backpacking and sex culture- Kamal Mukarkar joins the show and shares about life as a Palestinian Christian living just outside of Bethlehem in the West Bank- La Carmina calls in to talk about goth and alternative travel in Japan- Sgt. Julian Ponce and I catch up about life as a guard at the American Embassy guard in Hungary- Julie Arcangeles gives insights and tips on how to make it as a digital nomad and social media influencer.And so much more! So be sure to subscribe and tell your friends and family to do the same!

Back in the day, the Romans conquered Scottish territory only to decide it was too cold and too barbaric to govern. Their loss. Today, Scotland is renowned for its rugged beauty, dark medieval history and rebellious nature, luring millions of visitors each year. We're exploring the capital city of Edinburgh: a striking cityscape with both architectural elegance and dramatic, rolling hills. This time we're joined by two local guides, Colin Mairs (Excursion Scotland) and Sabela (Weekend Student Adventures), to share about Scotch whisky, Harry Potter inspirations, legends of Edinburgh's chilling past, and key highlights you can only experience in "Auld Reekie". (Season 1 finale)

"Night seeing is just as important as sightseeing." Today, we get an inside look at Budapest's thriving hostel scene from Smike Letwinsky, a Pennsylvania native and manager of the notorious Budapest Party Hostels chain. 

To mark our 20th episode, we're meeting up with GoAbroad.com founder & CEO Troy Peden, also celebrating 20 years of his massive travel website. Thanks to GoAbroad, millions of Americans with a craving for travel have been connected to study, volunteer, intern and work opportunities around the world.

It’s Greek week on the podcast! Greece is full of gems to explore, from iconic Athens, to the monasteries of Metéora, to its 6,000 islands scattering the sea. Local guide Angelos Kokkaliaris shares with us the sumptuous eats, social culture and stunning retreats (Santorini and Mykonos, sure- but have you heard of Amorgos?) that make up an authentic Greek experience.

John E. DiScala, or Johnny Jet, flies about 150,000 miles and 20 countries per YEAR. He is one of the world’s most established experts on budget and point-based travel. Johnnyjet.com has an impressive collection of flight tips, hacks and last-minute specials he stumbles across. 

I’ve been in touch with Johnny since I was still in high school with my very first travel blog. Today, we cover his best budget tips, discuss the recent United Airlines controversy, and hash out our theories on airline credit cards.

A few years back, Allison Fleece & Danielle Thornton met through a mutual interest in climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa. This bonding experience led to them starting their own company: WHOA (Women High on Adventure) travel.  From the peaks of Machu Picchu to the urban jungles of India, these women empower communities around the world with a new style of adventure.

We dive into Europe's most eclectic city, joined by my longtime guide and local Dutchie, Arthur Bijlholt. As a professional tour guide by day and comedy club owner by night, Arthur shares with us the deeper side of Amsterdam, beyond its many vices (although we cover those, too).This episode tackles Dutch politics, culinary highlights (vending machine fast food, anyone?) and the culture behind that unique, urban vibe you can only find in Amsterdam.

Brooke Roberts, founder of Inside Study Abroad and certified study abroad guru, is an international education professional, turned entrepreneur (she runs three of her own companies!) Brooke helps people skip to the front of the line and transform their approach to launching and growing an international education (or any) career. 

Let's be honest... staying fit while traveling is tough. With the swap of atmosphere and routine, plus the temptation of ALL that delicious food... it's easy to let yourself go overseas. Today, we learn from the pro's how to enjoy travel without throwing away our physical and mental health. Ryan O’Donnell, a CrossFit instructor who has taken up the expat life in Prague, shares his essential tips for fellow travelers. We also cover some of the finer points of Prague: favorite restaurants, sights, and, of course, nightlife. Enjoy! 

If you’ve had the incredible opportunity to study abroad, you may relate to that feeling of fulfillment that comes with it; a sense that you’ve found a new place to call “home". For Dr. Maggie Parke, abroad ‘home' was the small city of Bangor, in Wales, UK. Her overseas experience was so powerful that she made sure return right after grad school- this time for good.  Now an International Education Officer at Bangor University, Maggie shares what to expect when you take on the expat life, how students can maximize their own experiences abroad, and of course what makes Wales so magical (aside from all the castles and dragons). 

The story is something of a fairy tale: Typical American family, happily settled in Boston, gets called upon to collect their ancestors’ royal fortune in Europe. For the Lobkowicz clan, this is was indeed real life. Today, William Lobkowicz Jr. shares what it’s like to call a 40,000 square-foot castle home. His family has been a part of Czech nobility for 1000 years. All of their possessions were lost to the Nazi’s- and then again to communists. In Prague, the beautiful Lobkowicz Palace that looms over the city is one of 13 restored castles, now hosting a collection of paintings, musical scores (including Beethoven’s original sheet music) and firearms. William's personal accounts on the family's history brings Prague even more to life.

Rome is among the world’s most iconic capitals. Learn the secrets to maximizing your visit with insider tips from Sean Finelli, co-founder of The Roman Guy. We cover the top restaurants to taste, sights to explore, and perks of embracing the Italian way of life.

With St. Patrick’s Day around the corner, today we're getting the full Irish experience with special guest Stephen McPhilemy, a tour guide of almost 20 years.

We discuss Irelands deep culture & traditions, including the country’s struggle to keep Irish Gaelic alive, and share fun stories such as past hostel experiences (bed bugs, anyone?) and St. Paddy's Day shenanigans in Dublin.  
 
Hope you enjoy the 10th episode! Let us know what you think about the AST Podcast by leaving a review, and find more links and travel tips at andysteves.com 
 Happy Travels, and as they say in Ireland, Sláinte!
 


Today we’re zeroing in on the world of business and entrepreneurship as I’m interview with serial entrepreneur Will Mcleod. Will is a co-founder of Keen Home, a Smart Vent system featured on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank that landed a $750,000 deal from Robert Herjavec, one of the biggest offers in the show’s history. He was named to the Forbes’ 30 under 30 list in 2016, and has won over 2 million dollars in funding from business competitions. We discuss the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the process of forming the perfect team around your idea, and the realities of taking a concept all the way to become a winning product.

Pirate graveyards. Whirlpools in the Mekong Delta. Traveling without a cellphone *gasp!*
 Steve Bramucci has years of adventures under his travel belt. The secret? Embracing your inner “kid” when it comes to travel. Currently the editor of UPROXX Life, Steve has written for the likes of Nat Geo and Afar, and interviewed the experts such as Anthony Bourdain.  His story of encountering a real-life pirate graveyard in Madagascar won the Trazzler Oasis prize, and his trip across Australia in a car fueled with French fry oil was adapted into an Australian TV show.  Also featured: This week’s “Ask Andy” segment, where listeners send in those burning travel questions. Send yours to us at andysteves.com/travel! 

Enjoying the podcast? Let us know by leaving a review!
 Cheers to the next adventure.


The vibrant city Barcelona offers white sandy beaches by day, and glitzy dance clubs by night. But beyond that, this town has it all: surreal modernist architecture, bustling markets with fresh local produce and seafood, and nightlife that continues through sunrise. Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, Spain’s north-easternmost territory, and the regional pride here is fierce. Get ready to soak in the culture and pick up some tips on living like a local from this fun conversation I have with fellow guide Lauren Fokas. But first, we open the show with our newest segment—where listeners send in, comment and post their questions to us. This week, I answer: “What are the main travel apps you use?” and share essential apps to download before your trip- including local Ideas, cheap flight trackers, and a few that you may not expect will come in handy during travels.  Submit your burning travel questions at andysteves.com/podcast, or on my new Facebook page. Gracies!

I’m sure we’d all love to be friends with the guy who breaks Guinness travel records as a hobby. This is how today’s guest, Drew Goldberg, aka travel expert Drew Binsky spends his spare time, already making his mark by traveling to the most UNESCO sites in 24 hours. Thousands of millennials are already familiar with Drew, especially his social media profiles. He’s consistently ranked as THE top travel account (he’s even been called “the king”) of Snapchat, and with over 200,000 fans total, He's kinda a big deal in the travel world. Drew is supporting himself through sponsorships and travel gigs to achieve his goal to hit all 195 countries before turning 30. He’s 25 now and at 95 countries so far, so is well on his way. If you enjoyed the Nomadic Matt episode, you’ll love this one.

Aspiring to explore the world, whether it be for vacation or long-term? Today, we share how to make it happen. I'm joined by my dear friend and fellow global backpacker, Carey Carpenter, otherwise known as CareBear Abroad. She is a proud "traveling addict (with no need for an intervention)" who packed her bags with a one-way ticket to Prague. Three years later, Carey has made a living for herself on the road by teaching English and creating her own inspiring travel brand. I chat with Carey about the lessons, triumphs and challenges of life as a female nomad.

We’re heading to the beach in sunny Croatia! You’ll probably recognize this coastal destination by the picturesque white sandy beaches, or possibly by its cameo appearances in the popular series “Game of Thrones”.  There’s tons to discover in Croatia, which hit its record-high in tourism this past year in 2016. I’m joined by Ashley Colburn, the two-time Emmy-winning TV producer & host who turned her passion for travel into a career. Today, Ashley shares with me her secret to living the dream-life abroad, as well as how to best experience Croatia’s breathtaking national parks, delicious seafood --which includes live octopus, apparently…-- and addicting atmosphere.

Matthew Kepnes runs the award winning budget travel site, Nomadic Matt, and wrote the New York Times best-seller, How to Travel the World on $50 a Day. After a trip to Thailand in 2005, Matt decided to quit his job and head off into the world. His original trip was supposed to last a year. Over ten years later, he is still out roaming the world. His writings and advice have been featured in The New York Times, CNN, The Guardian UK, Lifehacker, Budget Travel, BBC, Time, Yahoo! Finance and countless other publications. He also regularly speaks at travel trade and consumer shows, leads group tours in Europe and Southeast Asia, opened a hostel in Texas, and launched a non-profit called FLYTE, that sends kids abroad to bring their classroom experience to life.

Bonjour!This episode is all about Paris. I'm today joined by my close friend and fellow guide, Kevi Donat. Kevi runs his own alternative tour company - Le Paris Noir, or 'the Black Paris', providing walking tours focused on Paris’ overlooked black history, musical influence and culture. He of course shares his thoughts on the must see sights and top neighborhoods and tips on how to avoid the crowds in one of the world’s most visited cities. We also discuss politics and discuss some of the most contentious issues in French and American politics. It’s one of my favorites conversations, and I hope you enjoy! WHAT WE TALK ABOUT: Following Kevi's passion: From Public Health to Tour GuidingThe birth of “Le Paris Noir”, or Black Paris WalksWhat you'll really get from a Free Walking tourExploring Paris 101:Where to find the trendy neighborhoods (St. Martin, Latin Quarter, etc.)Culture, how to stand out from the ParisiansBest food spot (links below)LINKS & NOTES: Le Paris NoirEnglish: http://www.blackpariswalks.com/en/about/French: leparisnoir.comSocial Media: @leparisnoir, Facebook.com/leparisnoirDiscover Walks - ParisLe Comptoir General WSA Paris Weekend Tour

Our first episode is focused on beautiful, bustling Budapest. Today, we visit the jewel of Central Europe with professional guide, entrepreneur, Budapest local and Boyz II Men aficionado Bogi Palotas. Find more info on this episode & more at andysteves.com. Enjoy!  

Welcome to the first episode! I briefly share my story, vision and what we are bringing to you this season