Moore to Explore

The Joshua Tree and this special park have been a iconic feature in music, film, and television over the years, but it is also one of the most unique and beautiful parks you can visit in the United States. In todays episode our virtual podcasting road trip continues as we head south to deserts outside of Palm Springs and explore the stunning flora and geology that make this park special. I share the story of my first visit to the park and how it’s stark beauty won me over so quickly, and I talk about the history of the park as well as the difference between a national park and national monument. I also share some inside tips about camping at or near the park, and which hikes and views are my personal favorites. 

This park has been described as the “crown jewel” of the National Park System by the one of the most famous naturalists and outdoorsmen John Muir. In todays episode I share what my first experience was like in this breathtaking place, some of my favorite hikes and views, and some insider tips for fellow backpackers/backcountry campers. I also talk a little bit about the historical importance of Yosemite to the national park system, and why the park has so much to offer geologically. 

Breathtaking bluffs, beautiful beaches, and the ever present sound of the great pacific ocean are a few of the many reasons to visit Point Reyes National Seashore. The first stop on our virtual podcasting road trip around the western united states, we head north from San Francisco to the only National Seashore on the Pacific Ocean. In this episode I share some of the history of the park, the flora and fauna you can expect to see, a few interesting facts, and the reasons why growing up with this park in my back yard was so special to me. I also discuss where to hike, what to see, and I break down what to expect from camping in this park. 

The open road, breathtaking National Parks, and endless wilderness are a few of the things that make the United States a special place to visit. The next section of the Moore to Explore podcast will be focusing on the american road trip, and will take us on a podcasting tour of many of the best and finest wild places in the American west. Wether you grew up in the states but had never explored our countries majesty, like me, or if you have never known where to start when planning your trip to the United States then this is the podcast for you! In this episode I talk about how some of the long road trips I have taken through the states have shaped so much of who I am, why I think the parks and wilderness are so important to visit, and I give a little preview of where we will be going on our podcast road trip. 

This is the last and personally most important episode of the European section of the Moore to Explore podcast. Obviously in these trying times travel for fun or to learn or expand your horizon is no longer possible. My own return to Berlin is now no longer possible, and I don’t know when I will be able to return to this city that has started to become like home. But we look to the future, for things that can inspire us, and things that bring us hope of better days to come. So todays travel review is my love letter to a city that has inspired me, and one that I dream of someday returning to. So dig into this lengthy and in depth review of one of my favorite places I have ever lived, Berlin, Germany. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe* The final chapter in my first journey to Europe comes to a close. I record one final #patchat from my parents home in California. I look forward towards another season of commercial salmon fishing in Alaska and the excitement/dread that it brings up for me. I also reflect on my last week in Germany, castle hunting in the Rhine valley, and saying goodbye to all my new friends in Berlin. Finally I talk about saying goodbye to the person who brought me to Germany, my partner, and how hard that always is. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe* As my final week in Europe approaches I reflect on my time, and how badly I would like to stay. I also talk about the luxurious life of train travel, and a new creative endeavor I have been pursuing. I break down my return to Switzerland to visit the picturesque town of Lucerne and to dance late into the night on a shipping boat in the river Rhine in Basel. I also reflect on some interesting things I learned about Swiss culture on my second trip to visit my friend in her home country. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe* A whirlwind week of celebrating the first of May, getting to explore Berlin with one of my best friends, and visiting the beautiful city of Potsdam. In this episode I break down the protest vs the party in Berlin’s famous May Day celebration, and talk about a delightful experience at a heavy metal bar. I also discuss my friend and I’s journey out to Potsdam, and our ill fated Saturday morning attempt to get into the infamous Berghain. 

One of the most historically and culturally significant places in the world, London is the subject of this travel review.   In this episode I talk about the city’s early start as a part of the Roman empire, and share some interesting facts including about some of the wildlife that calls the city home. I also discuss the one thing that stood out as both quintessentially London AND a personal highlight of my time in the city. In addition I break down some of the major tourist spots and give some dining recommendations. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe* The beauty of meeting strangers and the freedom to wander wherever you like were juxtaposed against the loneliness of traveling alone during my trip to Amsterdam. I discuss this experience as well as give an in depth play by play of my time in both Amsterdam and London. I talk about my image of Amsterdam in my head as a part of my stoner bucket list, how inspiring it was to visit a city with such a strong bike culture, and my first ever mugging experience. I also dive into how much better it is to visit places where you know someone, and why I think you should always follow up with people you met traveling. 

A historic town, set against the enchanting background of a deep blue lake encircled by the inspiring peaks of the Swiss Alps, Lucerne is the subject of this travel review. As always I talk a little bit about the history of this city, as well as share some of my favorite places I visited while I was there. In addition I share why this is such a budget friendly place for travelers, and what it was about Lucerne that made me fall in love with it. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe*  I open todays episode by saying a bunch of different names in a new segment where I just say names that I know. I also discuss how my time in Europe already feels like it is running out, and my mixed emotions about the effects of my nomadic life style. In addition I spend some time talking about the differences between grocery stores in Germany and the United States, as well another night of clubbing in Berlin’s fabulous night life. I wrap up by talking about some relaxing and fun times in several of the best parks in Berlin, and what makes these parks so great.

One of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, criss crossed with canals and countless bridges, the “venice of the north” Amsterdam is the subject of this travel review. In this episode I talk a little bit about the history of the cities founding, It’s rise to power and importance in the 17th century, and some of the important people who have called it home. I also share some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city as well as which ones were my favorite. In addition I also discuss some of the things I wish I had known before I had visited, and what I would do differently the next time. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe*  This week I visited the island of Cofu, in Greece. I break down the budget expenses of a five day trip to the island, and share some of the experiences that made the trip special. Including going skinny dipping for my first swim in the Mediterranean Ocean. I also discuss the joy of spontaneity with a Saturday night dance party at home, and I talk about the wonders of the famous MauerPark Flea Market in Berlin. 

Breathtaking bluffs, stunning beaches, underrated hiking trails, and quaint villages are a few of the things that make the island of Corfu so special. In this travel review I talk about the ways in which the islands history is intertwined with Greek mythology, the important military role it played historically, and what it is like geographically. I also discuss some of my favorite views and beaches, as well as why I think its so important to rent a car there. In addition I break down what kind of budget you will need for your trip to Corfu, and why I think the shoulder season holds so many opportunities. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe*  Spring has arrived in Berlin and the city is coming alive. I discuss watching the city come to life, and why I find taking the public transport so thrilling. I also talk about digging into the tourism options around Berlin. Including taking a Sandemans free walking tour, and making my own art walk through the city to photograph all of the incredible street art. In addition I share my experience visiting the concentration camp Sachsenhausen, outside of Berlin. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe*  The reality of long term travel isn’t always glamorous. In this episode I talk about my struggle being rejected from a flat share I applies for and my anxiety about trying to find my way and place in Berlin. I also discuss my first Berlin club experience, the ways it fulfilled the image in my head so beautifully, and how it helped me to feel more connected to the new community I was making. 

Beautiful architecture, interesting history, cheap accommodations, and good beer are some of the many reasons that made me fall in love with the city of Prague. In todays travel review I share some of the history of the cities founding, and it’s more recent political uprisings. I also break down some of my favorite places to visit in the city, a few favorite dishes (shout out Johnny’s pizza!), and I share what kind of budget you can expect to need for a visit to this majestic city. 

*This is a unreleased #Patchat from Spring 2019, my first time in Europe*  Today’s episode is “live” from Berlin! I talk about my first impressions of the city, and realties of catching up on the business of life after several months of travel. I also discuss my interview to volunteer at a hostel, and what it was like turning 29 in Prague. Finally I muse about the beauty of the fact that often times the best experiences in life are things that were never apart of the plan. 

In today’s cultural exchange I am joined by my friend Eshan, who grew up in Tehran, Iran. We met through mutual friends while I was staying in Berlin. The city that Eshan studies in and calls home today. In this episode we dive into our respective countries tenuous relationship with one another, and Eshan helps to dispel some of the assumptions I had about Iran from growing up in the United States. We also discuss what his childhood was like growing up in Tehran, the real impact of economic sanctions on a country, and what it was like for him to transition to life in Germany. 

The town of Sintra, beautiful Palace de Pena, and its enchanting grounds are the subject of this travel review. In this episode I break down how to visit this lovely destination and the best times to go. I also discuss some of the history of the palace and some interesting facts about the city of Sintra. In addition I share some of my experiences from visiting the palace and it’s grounds, and some insider tips I wish I had known before I visited. 

This beautiful city captured my heart, and quickly became one of my favorite places I have ever visited. In this episode I share some of my favorite places in the city to visit, some insider tips I learned from my local host/friend, and some strategies about how to see different parts of the city. I also dive into some of the history of the city, and share some of the personal experiences that made my time in Lisbon so special. 

I met João in the jungles of Costa Rica working at a hostel in 2017. We became fast friends, and two years later we were reunited when I visited him at his home in Lisbon, Portugal. We discuss what it was like growing up on a farm in northern Portugal, and talk about the things that make him proud to be Portugues. 

The spa capitol of the world and one of the most beautiful cities I have ever visited, Budapest, Hungary, is the subject of this travel review. I discuss the beautiful Szechenyi and Gellert thermal bathhouses, how much I enjoyed the delicately crafted architecture of the city, and some of the can’t miss buildings like Matthias Church next to the Fishermans Bastion. I also talk about the night life in Budapest and the popular ruin bars which did not entrance me. You even get a little history and some fun facts about the city in this episode! 

Visiting Cuba, having my first Berlin club experience, and seeing Alaskan Brown Bears up close are a few of my highs from 2019. I also dive into some of the things that made me struggle this year, from experiences to mentalities. It’s a long reflection on the year that was 2019, what I learned, what I made, and the new things I tried. This will be the last new and current #Patchat for a few months, so enjoy! 

The second largest city in Germany and the musical theater capitol of the country Hamburg, Germany is the subject of this travel review. I discuss my impression of the city from walking through its streets, and talk about some of the best sites to visit there. Including one my favorite and most unique places I have ever visited Miniatur Wunderland. I also dive into a little bit of history about the city, and share some fun facts to know before you go.

I reflect on the feeling of being home after another stint living abroad, and why I feel both sad and happy to be back. I also discuss my continued awkward interaction with customs/border control agents, and review one of the movies I watched on my flight home. In addition I also share some stories about my going away dinner/trivia night that Anja and I hosted and wrote. This is is the last fresh weekly #Patchat for awhile. 

The gateway to the black forest and the most eco friendly city in Germany, Freiburg, is the subject of this travel review. I discuss how the towns status as a university city shapes its culture and its politics, as well as some of the history of the city and its famous Munster Cathedral. I also talk about how its easy access to nature and charming streets won me over. In addition I spoke with two former residents to get some insider tips about their favorite places to go in the city. 

My first Christmas away from home and one of the most spectacular New Years I have ever experienced are a few of the things covered in this first #patchat after the holiday break and first #patchat of the twenties. I discuss the crazy fireworks of a Berlin New Years eve, my last club night in Berlin, and my eminent departure from Germany. I also dive into the experience of my first Christmas away from home, and how my gracious hosts made my first German Christmas such a success. Stick around for the end of the episode when I reveal my new plans for next year.  

Dealing with self expectation, and finding motivation through feeling loved and lucky. These are some of the thoughts and feelings I talk about working through in this weeks #patchat for 12/20/19. I also discuss my experience at the Berlin night club Griessmuehle, visiting my first Christmas Market, and performing at a story telling show. In addition I share what I learned Germans call projectors, and talk about finishing the first phase of an art project in the make something/learn something part of the Johnny Karate top five.

 I discuss the many awe inspiring castles that dot the German countryside, and which one was my favorite to visit. I also discuss the most famous castle in Germany that inspired Walt Disney in the film Sleeping Beauty. In addition I also discuss a little bit of the history of these castles, and how best to visit different groupings of these castles depending on their locations. 

The town of Potsdam an hour outside of Berlin by train is the subject of today’s travel review. The town is famous for Sanssuci Park and Palace which were ordered to be constructed by King Fredrick the Great. I discuss this and more of the town, and its palaces history in this episode as well as share a few fun facts about the city. I also talk about my experience visiting Potsdam, how to get there from Berlin, and wether or not I think it is worth visiting. 

A long weekend in Budapest and a reunion with a new friend are some of whats covered in todays #patchat for 12/10/19. In addition I discuss my frustration with having to make plans to leave Berlin, and my maiden voyage with the delight beverage gluhwein. I also share some of my favorite parts of Budapest (hint I might give it away in the title) and what drew me to this beautiful city. 

Sandemans New Europe walking tours is the subject of todays travel review. Pioneers of the free walking tour model, Sandemans is one of the best companies to help you explore a city on foot. I talk about my tour experience in Berlin, why I think doing a walking tour is an important way to provide some historical context to your travel, and how the tour guides help bring the history to life. You can visit them at https://www.neweuropetours.eu/

The strain of navigating visa’s in a relationship, embarrassing myself speaking German, and feeling creatively inspired are some of the subjects of this weeks Patchat for 12/4/19. In addition I give some friendly shout outs, share some Spanish new years eve traditions I learned about, and recommend some new media youtube shows I have been enjoying. So get into this weeks highs, lows, and Johnny Karate top five!

In this hybrid Ask a Tour Guide/Cultural Exchange episode I sit down with Stephanie Taylor-Carrillo who is the Chief Partnerships & Communications Officer for Sandemans New Europe walking tours. Stephanie, who was once a guide herself, talks about what you can expect from a Sandemans tour and why they were the first to pioneer the model of a free tour. We also dive into her experience emigrating from New Zealand to Berlin, and what she loves about the city. 

A 30th birthday party and my experience wading into the Berlin stand up comedy open mic scene are a few of the highs from the #Patchat from today 11/27/19. I talk about an awkward moment from my first open mic, and how Berlin's international population makes it such an engaging city. I also discuss my visit to the Neukolln history museum, and missing turkey day back in the states. 

My favorite park in Berlin, Treptower park, is the subject of this travel review. I talk about why it's the place to be when spring finally comes to Berlin, why Germany's laws help make all parks great including Treptower, and why I think its one of the best places to go for a run in the city. I also discuss some of the places you can visit in the park, like the Soviet War Memorial, and some the activities you can enjoy in the park as well. 

One of Berlin's most famous historical sites and most touristed destinations, the Berlin Wall is the subject of this travel review. In the episode I talk about the best and cheapest way to experience the wall, why its important to get some historical context, and all the reasons to love the artwork of the East Side Gallery. I also talk about one of the most impactful art pieces I have visited, the Die Mauer 360 Wall experience. 

How to use your time during long term travel is one of the subjects I dive into in this weeks #patchat for the week of 11/20/19. I also talk about creativity, hobbies, and the importance I think they hold on a meaningful life. In the Jonny Karate top five for this week I talk about learning about travel to Iran as an American, needing Photo's on resumes in Germany, trying something new like a band from Chile named Chico Trujillo, and much much more. 

My friend Joanna, originally from Hamburg, Germany, is the guest for this Cultural Exchange. Joanna, and I met in Berlin, through mutual friends, and hit it off from the start. We sat down last spring to talk about what it was like growing up in Hamburg, her experience being in a Polish/German family, and how her time living abroad has changed how she sees the world. 

Hamburg's beautiful harbor, stunning opera house, and delightful skyline are a few of the things I cover in today's #Patchat from 11/13/19. I also discuss the delightful Miniature Wonderland museum in Hamburg, with its staggering number of model trains, and fully functioning model airport. In addition I also dive into some fun facts about Hamburg, and my discovery of the largest decentralized memorial in the world. 

Beautiful parks, fountains on every corner, and ornate church's that are free to visit are a few of the wonderful things about Munich, discussed in this episode. As with every travel review I am joined by my co-hosts Chad Chump and Lucy Sun Dazzle to help provide some diversity of opinion. We break down why hostels can be a great way to meet a friend to tour a city with, why I liked Englischer Garten park's river surf wave, and the famous Hofbrauhaus. 

The sounds, smells, and electricity of Berlin are the focus of much of this week's #Patchat. I also discuss my final night in Lisbon enjoying Fado, traditional Portuguese music with my delightful host. In addition, I dive into how returning to Berlin, reconnecting with the friends I made here, and returning to its amazing night life really felt like a home coming. This episode also covers Berlin's amazing music scene, which this week included a inspiring concert from the group A Tribe Called Red. 

The wine was amazing, the city was even more beautiful, but the conversation and friendship was the best. This weeks #patchat is live from Lisbon, Portugal. I talk about my delightful host João, and the amazing dinners he invited me to and hosted. I also discuss some of the interesting things I learned about Portugal, it’s fútbol clubs, and their influence on politics. In addition I also cover some of the beautiful sightseeing spots around the city, and outside of it that can’t be missed. 

My guest today,Delia, works in a pharmacy in Basel, Switzerland. Delia and I met while we were studying Spanish in Costa Rica. After spending a month living with a Costa Rican family, and studying vocab at the beach we became good friends. So, when I came to Europe I asked if I could come visit her in Basel. We had a delightful visit, and she agreed to let me interview her. She discussed what it was like growing up in Switzerland, and what she loves about her country among other things. 

Pubs, Parks, and Public Transport are some of the highs from this weeks #Patchat. I talk about taking a fall, asking embarrassing questions, and why I really enjoyed London during this visit. I also break down my Johnny Karate top five, including such highlights as trying something new (even if it's scary), which for me was fish and chips. So get into some brand new Moore to Explore for the week of 10/23/19. 

The Moore to Explore travel reviews are back! The network took some notes on the Canadian and Cuban travel reviews and decided the show needed a couple of co-hosts. So I welcome Chad Chump and Lucy Sun Dazzle to discuss the beautiful city of Basel, Switzerland. We discuss the bike culture in the city, and some of the industry that powers the city. 

The Moore to Explore podcast is back!! After a brief hiatus we are back with a brand new #Patchat. In this episode I discuss my evaluation of the podcast during my hiatus in Alaska. I also reveal a new format and structure to the hit #Patchats series, and introduce a much needed time limit. Most importantly the new #Patchats will be released in real time each week. So get into some juicy new listening with this episode for 10/14/19. 

Travel creates more travel opportunities. I discuss this idea, and my experience visiting my Swiss friend Delia who I had met years before in a Spanish immersion school in Costa Rica. I also talk a little bit about being reunited with my girl friend, and making the journey to Reinheim to meet her family. I also get into my excitement for our upcoming trip to Prague. 

The Moore to Explore podcast and the #Patchats series is back! Live from my hostel dorm room in Munich, this is the #Patchat for 2/28/19. I talk about my last week in Cuba, and the culture shock of now being in Germany. I also discuss the transition from the warm Cuban weather to cold German winter, and how frustrating it is to go from speaking the language to not being able to speak at all. In addition I give my first impression of Germany.